BRADFORD MAN MICHAEL PORRETT SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN BRADFORD
In June 2014, a disturbing case emerged from Bradford involving Michael Porrett, a man who was convicted of sexually abusing a young girl and subsequently sentenced to five and a half years in prison.The court heard that Porrett, at the time aged 16 or 17, engaged in a series of heinous acts over a span of two months, targeting a girl who was only seven or eight years old.
Prosecutor Sophie Drake detailed that during this period, Porrett not only assaulted the young girl but also documented his disturbing fantasies in written form.
These included sexually explicit drawings, notes, and letters, which he had written around the same time as the abuse took place.
The court was shown evidence of these materials, revealing the extent of his juvenile sexual fantasies and the premeditation involved.
Miss Drake emphasized that the victim, in a personal statement read to the court, described the profound and lasting impact the abuse had on her life.
She recounted feelings of anger, distress, and ongoing emotional struggles, which have affected her relationships, including her marriage.
The court was told that the abuse had left a deep scar, influencing her mental health and well-being long after the incidents.
Michael Porrett, of Rayleigh Street, East Bowling, Bradford, was found guilty after a trial of four separate offences of child sexual abuse.
His defense barrister, Kate Batty, argued that the offending occurred over a relatively short period and appeared to have ceased voluntarily.
She also noted that Porrett was now accepting responsibility for his actions.
Judge Colin Burn, presiding over the case, sentenced Porrett to five and a half years in prison.
In his remarks, the judge described the abuse as regular, if not continuous, and highlighted the disturbing nature of Porrett’s actions.
He stated, “You were getting her into situations whereby you were able to go some short way towards putting into practice your juvenile sexual fantasies.” The judge also addressed the long-term effects on the victim, stating that the abuse had caused her significant and enduring emotional harm.
He remarked that the trauma of revisiting her ordeal during the trial had further compounded her suffering.
“It is a lifelong effect.
After serving your sentence you are able to move on, but she isn’t,” Judge Burn concluded, underscoring the lasting impact of the crime on the young girl’s life.
