A Keyingham man who sexually abused a child over a year has been jailed for 14 years.
William Perkins, 30, was sentenced at Hull Crown Court following a seven-day trial that concluded on Wednesday, November 11.
He had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to eight counts of assault by penetration but denied rape of a girl aged between 13 and 15 and sexual assault. A jury found him guilty of those offences.
Perkins, who was a teacher at the time of the abuse, was also ordered to remain on the sex offenders’ register for life. Police said none of the offending took place at his workplace.
The investigation began after police received a report that a child had disclosed a series of sexual offences committed against her. Perkins was arrested and interviewed, admitting assault by penetration but denying rape throughout the investigation.
Humberside Police Detective Sergeant Addison Lloyd, who led the investigation, said: “I would like to start by highlighting the remarkable unwavering courage and bravery demonstrated by the child in this case; her commendable behaviour is in stark contrast to the despicable crimes that Perkins has committed.
“Perkins was a teacher in a school at the time of the abuse; he held a position of trust and while none of his offending happened in the workplace he still violated this through his despicable actions.
“Remarkably Perkins admitted to some child sexual offences but denied a sexual interest in children along with the allegations of rape.
“His refusal to admit what he had done, led to the case being forced to trial, and this selfish act only extended the suffering for the child that he abused. I am incredibly grateful for all her and her families’ efforts, as without their vital evidence we would not have been able to bring Perkins in front of the courts.
“We take all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously and we will continue to seek justice for those who have suffered at the hands of predators like Perkins.
“Our specialist trained officers work closely with partnering and support agencies across the region to support victims and survivors, as well as prevent and bring justice to perpetrators of sexual crimes of any nature.
“When ready, we urge victims to come forward and tell someone, report these crimes to the police and we will do everything we can to hold those accountable.”
Anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence can report it to police on 101. In an emergency, or if a crime is ongoing, call 999.
Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
