'Sadistic' and 'evil' Sheffield rapist jailed for 22 years after victims come forward
He was convicted of nine counts of sexual abuse, including rape and indecent assault
Last updated 6th Feb 2025
A Sheffield man dubbed a 'sadistic' and 'evil' rapist is started a 22 year prison sentence, after being jailed for historic sexual offences against two victims.
60 year old Ricky Bellion, of Washington Road, was convicted of nine counts of sexual abuse, including rape and indecent assault, at Sheffield Crown Court in November.
He was first questioned in 2019 after a victim came forward to report what had happened to her in the 1980s and 1990s, starting when she was just 10.
She first met him at the now-defunct St James’ Baths in Doncaster in 1984.
The victim was manipulated and subjected to frequent assaults over many years.
A second victim also came forward to report Bellion, who denied any responsibility in police interviews.
Speaking after the sentencing, one of the victims said: "The shame and secrecy the crimes made me have, are slowly being lifted. It has been like a like a horrid lead weight on me, that has been crushing my inner soul and mind over the years.
"To finally get justice, is beyond any words or feelings that I can ever attempt to describe or express.
"The audacity of him to remain acting like an innocent man from the very start of this case, has been insulting, when all along, there were never any doubts about the truth."
DS Joanna Vine, who led on the case for South Yorkshire Police, said: "Both victims deserve enormous credit for reporting Bellion’s crimes to police, and I hope this case goes to show that it does not matter how long ago it happened - we will always strive for justice.
"This was a very lengthy and complex investigation, and I am pleased Bellion has been given a significant custodial sentence.
"Please remember it is never too late to report a sexual offence. If you have been a victim or you know someone who has been a victim of this crime, please know that we are here to listen to you and support you through every step of the process."