SEX OFFENDER JAILED FOR 10 YEARS AFTER RAPING YOUNG GIRL HE BEFRIENDED
A THRICE-convicted sex offender has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after admitting to raping a young girl.The court heard that Terry Bishop, aged 48, was convicted multiple times in the past for indecent assaults on girls under 14 and once for an indecent assault on a girl under 16.He was described as having befriended the mother of his victim, who was unaware of his criminal history.Bishop was convicted of raping a girl under 13 and committing three sexual assaults of a girl under 13.
During the investigation, authorities found a sexual image in the child's notebook, which was used as evidence in court.
Bishop pleaded guilty in August to the rape and sexual assault charges.
The court was informed that he would spend two-thirds of his sentence in prison and would be on licence for five years after the sentence.Prosecutor Kerry Maylin emphasized that the crimes were 'sickening' and committed against a child whom Bishop had befriended through her mother, underscoring that no child should endure such acts.
She noted that the case was prosecuted by the CPS Wessex Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit, highlighting their commitment to child abuse cases.The judge ordered a psychological report before sentencing.
Bishop's past convictions include two for indecent assaults on girls under 14 and one for an indecent assault on a girl under 16.
He now faces a lengthy prison term and supervision after release.
