NICHOLAS HARRIS AND CLARE BUTTICE SENTENCED FOR ABUSE IN BEDFORD
A couple from Bedford, described as 'repulsive' for their involvement in abusing children both sexually and psychologically, has been sentenced to a total of 35 years in prison.Nicholas Harris, aged 54, received a 23-year sentence, while Clare Buttice, aged 41, was sentenced to 12 years.
The court described the abuse as 'degrading.' Bedfordshire Police initiated their investigation after victims came forward to report the crimes, which also involved physical violence and other forms of abuse.
The court mandated that both offenders must serve at least two-thirds of their sentences before being considered for release.
They are also required to register as sex offenders for the rest of their lives and are prohibited from having any contact with the victims.
Detective Constable Nina Bradbury, from Bedfordshire Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP) team, led the inquiry.
She stated: 'This was a horrific series of crimes, in which children were exploited into performing acts for the offenders' sexual gratification.' She emphasised the lasting impact on the victims, saying, 'These offences have had a significant impact on the victims, and they will carry this trauma with them for the rest of their lives.
I am pleased the courts have issued such a strong custodial sentence and that this repulsive pair will spend a long time behind bars.' Describing the complexity of the investigation, DC Bradbury added that it highlights their ongoing commitment to combating offenders and safeguarding children.
She stressed the importance of collective effort in protecting vulnerable youth, saying, 'Protecting children from this kind of sickening abuse is absolutely imperative - and work that needs our collective effort to succeed.
Our specialist officers and partnership services will continue to work with and support the victims as they try to move on with their lives.' She concluded with a call to action: 'If you have concerns that a child is being neglected, exploited, or abused, these concerns are too important not to share.
We must all play our part in protecting children.'
