PLYMOUTH TEEN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS
A teenager convicted of four counts of rape against a girl has been sentenced to imprisonment.Curtis Carwithen, aged 18 and from Fegen Road, Plymouth, was found guilty on July 23 of the four counts of rape, which took place when he was under 18 years old, following a four-week trial at Plymouth Crown Court.
The court was informed that all offences occurred in Plymouth.
Carwithen was acquitted of charges related to three other girls also under 18.
The judge, Mathew Turner, stated that because the offences happened while Carwithen was a minor and the trial was delayed until after he turned 18, he would be sentenced as a youth.
He was sentenced to four years and six months for each rape, with all sentences running concurrently.
The court indicated he would serve up to two-thirds of his sentence, but time already spent in custody since December 9 of the previous year would count towards his sentence.
It was also ordered that he remains on the Sex Offender's Register for life and pay a victim surcharge of £41.
Furthermore, Carwithen was issued four restraining orders lasting seven years, aimed at preventing further offences against four young females.
The judge emphasized that the orders were requested by the victims and deemed necessary.
Reporting restrictions from the trial were lifted, allowing media to name Carwithen.
Following sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Marie Daykin emphasized the importance of reporting sexual abuse and assured the community of a dedicated team working to bring offenders to justice, encouraging victims to come forward.
She stated, 'Your courage can make a difference.' Support helplines for victims include the National Rape Crisis Helpline, Devon and Cornwall SARC, and other local services.
