Man sentenced to 15 years for sexual assault of a child in Surrey
Joel Hanby, 43, started the abuse when the survivor was about seven or eight years old
A man from Frimley Green has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually abusing a child.
Joel Hanby, 43, was convicted of sexually assaulting a child under 13, having started the abuse when the survivor was about seven or eight years old.
According to police, the survivor reported the abuse to her teacher in March 2023, which led to Hanby's arrest the following day.
Detective Constable Kiki Phillips, who investigated the case, said: “We must acknowledge the bravery and resilience that the survivor has demonstrated at such a young age, throughout the investigation and court proceedings."
“As a young child, she summoned the courage to make a report of abuse that she had suffered at the hands of Hanby."
“Her compelling and detailed evidence ensured he was sent to prison immediately after the jury’s verdict, where he will be unable to cause any further harm to children."
During police interviews, Hanby attempted to deflect blame, citing personal difficulties and accusing the survivor of dishonesty.
The court revealed that after his minimum 10-year prison term, Hanby will be subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order to protect the survivor and her family.
In court, the survivor's mother expressed the significant impact of the abuse on her daughter's life, illustrating changes in her mood and relationships.
Detective Constable Phillips added: “Over a span of years, Hanby utilised his position of trust to perpetrate inexcusable, abhorrent abuse against the survivor."
“My thoughts are with the survivor's family as I wish them the best in moving forward from this distressing period of their lives."
“I hope the survivor herself excels in achieving all of her ambitions without Hanby and his previous actions holding her back.”
Advice and information on reporting sexual offences can be found on Surrey Police's website, with a bespoke online reporting form available for initial reports to be made safely and at any time.