Paul Edward Court was jailed for 14 years at Swansea Crown Court after being convicted of a 'campaign of rape'
A MAN who carried out a "campaign of rape" against a vulnerable young girl has been jailed for 14 years.
Paul Edward Court abused the youngster over a 15-month period, repeatedly raping the girl who had special educational needs.
The attacks happened a decade ago, but it is only in recent years the victim has come forward to report them.
Court, aged 33, of Gwendoline Street, Port Talbot, had previously been found guilty of five counts of rape following a trial when he appeared in the dock of Swansea Crown Court for sentencing.
Andrew Taylor, for Court, said his client maintained his innocence despite the verdicts — but faced the custodial sentence he knew would be handed to him "with stoicism". The barrister said the defendant's family were standing by him, which boded well for his eventual release.
Judge Peter Heywood said Court had carried out a "campaign of rape" against the vulnerable girl over a prolonged period.
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He sentenced Court to a total of 14 years in prison.
Speaking after the sentencing South Wales Police detective inspector Phil Sparrow said: "The victim in the case was a vulnerable woman, who was provided with multi-agency support – and despite these challenges she had the strength and courage to support the police prosecution and provided evidence of her harrowing and traumatic experience.
"She was supported throughout by specialist officers from Morriston CID, who continue to work tirelessly for victims of rape and target and pursue individuals who exploit the most vulnerable persons within our society.
"In addition, this successful court result is testament to the courage of the victim and the commitment of the investigative team – and hopefully this sentence will inspire trust and confidence in our communities to report these matters."
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The sentence was welcomed by children's charity, NSPCC Cymru / Wales.
A spokesman said: "Court is a predatory sex offender whose campaign of sickening abuse on a vulnerable young child lasted 15 awful months.
"The length of the custodial sentence imposed upon him reflects the seriousness of his crimes and his victim has shown tremendous bravery in reliving her ordeal in court.
"This case is proof that survivors of abuse will be listened to, no matter how much time has passed.
"Sexual abuse ruins childhoods and its devastating effects can last long into adulthood. That's why it's absolutely vital that victims get the support they need as soon as possible."
Read more at http://www.southwales-eveningpost.co.uk/port-talbot-man-jailed-for-campaign-of-rape-against-girl-with-special-educational-needs/story-30100814-detail/story.html#gktV2cxLd24FQX0r.99
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