Lincolnshire man will be sentenced for child sex offences next month
The 22-year-old claimed the victim told him they were 17
A man from Cherry Willingham who pleaded guilty to raping a child under the age of 13 will be sentenced next month after a hearing.
David Thorne, of New Crescent, had already pleaded guilty to eight sexual offences, including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, before he appeared at Lincoln Crown Court on Friday 2nd May.
The 22-year-old previously admitted the sexual contact between himself, and his young victim had taken place, but claimed they had told him they were 17 years’ old.
However, his assertion was dismissed at a Newton Hearing – which seeks to determine truth when two sides offer conflicting evidence – and he was remanded to custody immediately.
The judge said he had “no hesitation” in accepting the victim’s account of events and Thorne will be sentenced in June.
The court heard that Thorne met up with his young victim multiple times, driving from his home to pick them up from the Grantham area.
Detective Constable Victoria Oakes, who led the investigation, heaped praise on the victim for their bravery and courage.
Speaking at the conclusion of the hearing, DC Oakes said: “I am in awe of the victim involved in this case. They have been immense.
“The bravery and courage they have displayed over the last year has been truly incredible and I hope that this result offers some sense of closure.
“Thorne’s actions are reprehensible and completely unacceptable in our society. His victim was clearly underage, and he knew that.
“Instead, he chose to plead ignorance and I am glad that the judge dismissed his claims and will sentence him for his crimes in due course.
“I hope this sends a strong message to any would-be perpetrator that we will investigate to the fullest and pursue all lines of enquiry to secure justice for victims in Lincolnshire.”