Schoolgirl praised for speaking out against Sandwell child abuser
Detectives have praised a schoolgirl for speaking out against a man who subjected her to years of childhood abuse ? and helping put her attacker behind bars for at least a decade.
Shane Barrett, from Church Street in Darlaston, was given a 15 year jail sentence for a prolonged campaign of rape and sexual assaults against the girl starting when she was just nine.
The 34-year-old repeatedly abused the youngster between 2007 and 2012 ? at addresses in West Bromwich and Smethwick ? before she confided in her mother who alerted West Midlands Police's Public Protection Unit.
Officers first moved in to arrest Barrett from his home address in February 2012. Computer equipment was seized which, when forensically analysed, revealed a library of more than 200 abuse videos involving children as young as two.
He denied of rape, sexual assault and possessing indecent images of children but was jailed at Wolverhampton Crown Court on April 28 after a jury found him guilty on a total of 11 counts.
The judge told unemployed Barrett he must spend at least 10 years in prison before he can be considered for release.
Detective Constable Maria Perrin, a specialist child abuse investigator, praised the girl's courage in reporting the abuse and said her actions not only ended her abuse but potentially stopped other children suffering at Barrett's hands
She added: "She is an extremely brave, resilient young lady who remained strong through what was a lengthy investigation.
"She was abused between the ages of nine to 13. After keeping it to herself for many years she plucked up the courage to disclose the offences which meant we could arrest Barrett and protect her.
"We have specially trained officers available to support child victims and their families, guide them through the police and court process, and ensure they have access to counselling and any help they need from abuse charities.
"People can report abuse to us safe in the knowledge their complaint will be taken seriously, handled in confidence, and be fully investigated… irrespective of how long ago the offences occurred."
The girl was not required to give evidence in person at court; her video interviews were played to the court and she was cross examined via video link.
To report abuse, or if you suspect someone is being abused, contact the Public Protection Unit on the 101 number.
