Man Jailed for 18 Years in Surrey for Child Sexual Assaults

A man from Surrey has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for multiple sexual assaults against a nine-year-old girl. The victim came forward in May 2021 after discovering a voice note in which Alan Drake, 63, admitted to offenses that took place in 2009 and 2010, according to Surrey Police.Drake, residing on Green Lane in Sunbury-on-Thames, was convicted at Guildford Crown Court after a trial on 13 counts of sexual assault. The victim expressed her feelings, stating: "This man has robbed me of my childhood where I should have been happy and making childhood memories. I am determined that he shall not rob me of my future."He was found not guilty of one charge of sexual assault. The judge described Drake’s offenses as "wicked offences against someone defenceless."Investigating officer Det Con Scarlett Watkins praised the victim’s bravery, saying she was "in awe" of her. The sexual offence liaison officer Roberta Jeffries also commended the survivor’s courage, encouraging others who have suffered similar abuse to seek justice.