Child rapist is jailed for 24 years
A Birmingham man has been jailed for 24 years after he was found guilty of sexual offences including the rape of four girls under the age of 16.
Over a 12-year period, Robert Bessant, of Windermere Road, Moseley, groomed and sexually assaulted four girls aged between 12 and 14.
Bessant, 37, was investigated after one of the girls reported that he had indecently touched her after he massaged her legs. This led to another girl coming forward, reporting that he had done the same to her.
He defended his actions by claiming that he was just helping the girls who were experiencing a growth spurt. He claimed that his job as a personal trainer and masseur gave him experience of this.
Further girls were identified by police as an investigation was launched and allegations of rape and sexual assault were reported.
It was revealed that he had raped one of the girls when she was just 12 and engaged in sexual activity with a 14-year-old after befriending them and their families. He went on to have a sexual relationship with both girls, taking advantage of their age and vulnerability.
Courage
Bessant was charged with two counts of sexual assault on two of the girls and 14 counts of sexual activity, which included three counts of rape of a child under the age of 13.
Last week at Birmingham Crown Court, Bessant was found guilty of all 16 counts, following a trial where the girls had to give evidence.
Detective Sergeant Mark Hickman, from West Midlands Police's Public Protection Unit, said: “The bravery and courage of these girls in coming forward is admirable and I am so very thankful to those who reported their experiences to us.
“I would like to reassure and urge anyone who has ever thought about speaking to police about sexual abuse to come forward. We are here to help you.
“If you want to speak to me about this case in particular, please don’t hesitate to contact me on 101 ext 862 6037."
Survivors of sexual abuse can also speak to the NSPCC 24 hours a day on 0808 800 5000 and more information can be found at https://nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/signs-symptoms-effects/non-recent-abuse/
Counselling services and support for survivors of sexual abuse can also be found at rsvporg.co.uk
