Man jailed for over 18 years for sexual offences against young girl
Joseph Hewitt sentenced at Northampton Crown Court
A 36-year-old man has been sentenced to 18 years and six months in prison for committing multiple child sex offences.
Joseph Hewitt, from West Haddon, pleaded guilty at Northampton Crown Court to two counts of raping a girl under 13, one count of raping a girl aged 13-15, and three counts of engaging in penetrative sex with a girl aged 13-15.
The serious offences occurred over a six-year period when the victim was between 10 and 16 years old.
Following Hewitt's arrest and charges, his guilty plea led to his sentencing last month, on 26th June.
Detective Constable Kirstie Brooks, the lead investigator, highlighted the gravity of the offences.
“Joseph Hewitt subjected this young girl to serious sexual abuse over a number of years, causing harm that no child should ever have to endure," Brooks said.
“I welcome the significant custodial sentence handed down by the court, which reflects the severity of his offending and ensures he will spend a considerable period of time behind bars.
“I would also like to thank the survivor in this case for her bravery in coming forward and supporting the investigation. Reporting offences of this nature can be incredibly difficult, and her courage has been instrumental in bringing Hewitt to justice. I’d also like to thank retired officer Sharon Jephcott for her help in investigating this case.
“Northamptonshire Police is committed to protecting children and pursuing those who seek to exploit or abuse them. We will continue to work tirelessly to investigate reports of child sexual abuse and hold offenders accountable for their actions.”