Man jailed for raping two children in Lincolnshire
William Clay was convicted following a nine-day trial
A man who raped two children and committed a string of other offences has been jailed for eleven years.
William Clay, formerly of Grantham, appeared at Lincoln Crown Court on Friday 25th September for sentencing, after being convicted following an earlier nine-day trial.
The 20-year-old denied raping one victim but was found guilty by a jury.
He pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, one of intentional strangulation and two of ABH against his second victim.
The offences took place in Lincolnshire between 2024 and 2026, with both victims under the age of 16 when the abuse began, Lincolnshire Police said.
Clay also pleaded guilty to possession of indecent images and extreme pornography.
He was sentenced to sixteen years in total, eleven in prison and five on licence.
He was also handed a sexual harm prevention order for sixteen years, added to the sex offenders register, and given a restraining order for life.
Detective Constable Karolina Pelka praised the victims at the heart of the investigation and thanked those who helped bring Clay to justice.
"Both victims showed real resilience and bravery throughout a long trial," DC Pelka said.
"We commend both victims for their courage and strength in coming forward and supporting this investigation," she said.
"Their bravery through what has undoubtedly been a difficult process is recognised and greatly appreciated. Without them, Clay would still be on the streets," DC Pelka said.
"This was a joint investigation between PVP and CID which brought the results of getting suspect remanded and charged all the way to the trial process," she said.
"I would like to thank the officers involved for their professionalism, dedication and commitment," DC Pelka said.
"Their thorough and diligent work has played an important role in bringing this case to the conclusion," she said.