RICHARD PROUT EXETER SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR GROOMING AND RAPE OF TEENAGE GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Exeter, Richard Prout, a 50-year-old man from Legion Way, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 12 years after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses involving a teenage girl. The court heard that Prout had manipulated and exploited a vulnerable 15-year-old girl who had run away from home and sought refuge at his residence.

According to court proceedings, Prout deceived the young girl into moving into his bedsit by falsely claiming that social workers had approved her stay. Once she was under his roof, he subjected her to a series of violent and coercive acts, creating a reign of terror that left her under his control. The abuse culminated in her becoming pregnant at the age of 16, with Prout being the father of her child. The court was told that Prout was already involved with another girl who had just turned 16 at the time.

During the trial, a probation officer questioned Prout about his apparent preference for young girls. His chilling response was, “Age is just a number,” which the court found indicative of his predatory mindset. Prout faced charges of three counts of rape and two counts of sexual activity with a child. Despite denying the allegations, a jury at Exeter Crown Court found him guilty on all counts.

Judge Mr. David Bartlett, who presided over the case, emphasized the aggravating factors that warranted a severe sentence. He pointed out the significant age difference between Prout and his victim, as well as the use of force and intimidation during the assaults. The judge described the victim as an extremely vulnerable 15-year-old girl who had left her home and was sleeping rough when Prout lured her in.

“She had fallen into your clutches under the false pretenses of being a father figure,” the judge stated. “It is clear you were grooming her as a sexual partner, and you did not wait long before violently raping her. There was a degree of coercion and force until she submitted.”

He further remarked on Prout’s capacity for harm, especially towards young girls and teenagers, highlighting the seriousness of his actions. The court noted that the victim was studying for her GCSEs but had left her home after her relationship with her parents broke down. She was living on the streets when Prout picked her up and exploited her.

Prout’s criminal activities were uncovered as part of Operation Hat, a police investigation into historical sexual abuse cases in Exeter. Detective Inspector Steve White commented on the case, saying, “Operation Hat was a complex and demanding investigation focused upon historical sexual abuse of young girls in the Exeter area. I would like to recognize the courage of those who attended the court to provide evidence.”

Prout’s sentencing sends a clear message about the community’s stance on such heinous crimes, and authorities hope it will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider exploiting vulnerable young people.