‘Manipulative offender’ jailed for serious sexual abuse of a child
51-year-old James Groves sentenced to over 20 years at Bristol Crown Court
Last updated 21st Sep 2026
A 51-year-old from South Gloucestershire has been sentenced to 20 years and six months in prison following a conviction at Bristol Crown Court for multiple non-recent offences, including rape and sexual assault on a child.
James Groves, also known as April, was found guilty by a jury of 19 separate offences against the victim, whose identity is protected by legal reasons.
The offences included nine counts of rape, alongside several counts of sexual assault, assault by penetration, possession of indecent photographs, engaging in sexual communications with a child, and acts intended to pervert the course of public justice.
The offences were brought to light after Groves was arrested over inappropriate communications with a child. Further investigations led to the victim disclosing a sustained history of abuse over several years, resulting in last October's charges being filed.
James Groves will also be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for an indefinite period, as ruled by the court.
The victim spoke about the impact of Groves' actions, stating, "I felt that because Groves groomed me, I did not realise how serious what was going on was. People have said to me that I am not the bright, bubbly girl I once was, and I am just a shell of my former self."
Detective Constable Ben Perrett from the Criminal Investigations Department commended the victim for her bravery in supporting the investigation. "Her courage has been instrumental in securing this conviction and preventing further harm."