NORWICH GROOMER WHO REPEATEDLY RAPED GIRL SENTENCED TO OVER 20 YEARS

A predatory offender who filmed himself repeatedly raping and sexually abusing a teenage girl has been sentenced to more than 20 years. The court heard that Ashley Fenn, 33, groomed the schoolgirl into increasingly sexualized situations over a six-month period before abusing her multiple times, recording these acts on his mobile phone. Norwich Crown Court was told he posed a significant risk, especially towards girls and young women. Judge Katharine Moore sentenced him to 20 years and nine months — comprising 14 years and nine months in prison and an additional six years on extended licence — after he admitted to 16 sex offences. The court described him as a dangerous offender with a 'significant risk' and noted his 'predatory' nature, indicating an attraction to young girls. Prosecutor Simon Connelly stated that Fenn began grooming the victim in April 2024, when she was only 14, and the prolonged abuse continued until it was uncovered in October. Fenn bought the girl underwear, manipulated her into having increasingly intimate massages, and applying beauty products before sexually assaulting and raping her. The psychological impact on the victim has been described as devastating, likely affecting her for the rest of her life. At the time of the offences, Fenn was on licence from a previous three-year prison sentence for heroin and cocaine supply in Norwich. He pleaded guilty to offences including rape, sexual assault by penetration, sexual activity with a child, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, and making indecent images and videos of a child. Defence lawyer Andrew Oliver said Fenn is struggling to come to terms with his actions and is devastated by the harm caused. Judge Moore emphasized his entrenched attitudes, ruling that Fenn should also be subject to a life-long Sexual Harm Prevention Order to protect other young and vulnerable girls.