Bookham man jailed for sexual offences against teenager
21-year-old sentenced to over four years behind bars
Bailey Harding, a 21-year-old from Bookham, has been jailed for four years and six months for multiple sexual offences against a teenage girl.
The offences began when Harding was 17, targeting a girl known to him over a span of 18 months.
She was just 14 years old when the abuse commenced.
In January 2024, the victim came forward to police, disclosing offences including rape, sexual assault, strangulation, and threats involving a knife.
Harding was swiftly arrested, and police recovered two large zombie-style knives from his room.
Despite his denial of all accusations during an interview and claims that the victim's allegations were malicious, he was convicted following a trial in July.
His convictions include one count of rape, three counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15, intentional strangulation, threatening with an offensive weapon, and controlling and coercive behaviour.
On 25th September, at Chichester Crown Court, Harding received a sentence alongside a seven-year restraining order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
The victim, now an adult, described the persistence of Harding’s abuse on her life, expressing fears of encountering him and altering her appearance to avoid recognition.
Reflecting on Harding's manipulation, she stated, “I felt he was my saviour but ultimately he was my tormentor.”
She described two and a half years of troubled sleep.
Investigating officer DC Helen Cridge acknowledged the victim’s courage, despite her vulnerability at the time of reporting.
Cridge stated, “Her strength and determination have been inspiring, and her actions have played a vital role in securing this result.”
This bravery serves as encouragement for others experiencing abuse to speak out.
The victim urged others not to remain silent, saying, “Don’t let anyone make you feel like your voice doesn’t matter, and don’t let anyone take it away from you.”