SICK FATHER AND SON JAILED FOR HORROR SEXUAL ABUSE OF THE SAME CHILD
Michael Dent, aged 37, and Jack Dent-Bradley, aged 19, have been sentenced at Durham Crown Court for serious sexual offenses against a vulnerable child, actions that caused the victim to experience prolonged suffering and depression.The court heard that both relatives assaulted the minor separately, with each abusing the child at different times.
The victim, now an adult, described in a statement how the abuse led to long-term mental health struggles, including PTSD, and expressed the pain of never being able to forgive his abusers.
Michael Dent was sentenced to a total of 14 years in prison, with 13 years to be served in custody.
In addition, he received an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and restraining order, and will remain on the sex offender registry for life.
Jack Dent-Bradley, who was a minor at the time of the offenses, was sentenced to 66 months in prison.
The judge characterised his crimes as "extremely cruel, persistent and damaging," and also imposed an indefinite restraint and sexual harm prevention order, along with lifelong registration on the sex offender register.
It was revealed during sentencing that Dent-Bradley’s offenses occurred when he was between 10 and 14 years old, and both defendants are from Witton Gilbert, County Durham.
The prosecution emphasised that each defendant exploited the child independently.
Tony Davis, representing Dent-Bradley, highlighted his client’s ADHD diagnosis, history of significant neglect, and early developmental trauma, as mitigating factors.
Conversely, Lewis Kerr, acting for Michael Dent, acknowledged his client’s mental health issues, including ADHD and low IQ, but noted they do not substantially justify his conduct.
