DEVIZES SEX OFFENDER THOMAS BASSETT SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR MULTIPLE SEXUAL OFFENCES

In a significant development in the fight against sexual crimes in Wiltshire, Thomas Bassett, a 58-year-old man from Devizes, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence of 20 years after being found guilty of committing a series of heinous sexual offences. The conviction, which was secured at Winchester Crown Court, includes charges of raping two women, multiple sexual assaults on children, and an additional sexual assault on another woman. The severity of Bassett's crimes was underscored by the judge’s remarks, emphasizing the predatory and manipulative nature of his actions.

Thomas Bassett, who resides on Stockwell Road in Devizes, was also previously sentenced to 12 months in prison last year for the possession and distribution of indecent images of children. This prior conviction highlights a disturbing pattern of behavior that has now culminated in the recent, more serious charges.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Keith Harford of Wiltshire Police expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We welcome today’s sentencing, following on from yesterday’s guilty verdict. This is a positive result reflecting years of hard work for my officers in compiling enough evidence to convict this man.” He further praised the bravery of the victims, saying, “Wiltshire Police would like to thank each of the victims for their courage in coming forward and sharing their traumatic experiences.”

Judge Miller, who presided over the case, described Bassett as “a devious, sexual predator who carried out repulsive and manipulative behavior,” adding that “it is likely that he has been offending throughout his entire life.” This characterization underscores the deeply troubling nature of Bassett’s conduct and the long-standing pattern of abuse.

In her closing remarks, Judge Miller also acknowledged the possibility of additional victims, urging anyone who might have been affected to come forward. She assured the public that any disclosures would be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality by specially trained officers. Detective Harford emphasized the police’s commitment to pursuing all offenders, encouraging victims or witnesses to contact authorities via the non-emergency number 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

In a related case from September 2014, Bassett was also sentenced to 12 months in prison for making and distributing indecent images of children. At Salisbury Crown Court, he was convicted of nine counts of creating indecent photographs of minors, two counts of possessing extreme pornographic material, and one count of possessing an indecent photograph of a child, with the offences spanning from November 2011 to November 2012. This earlier conviction further illustrates the extent of Bassett’s disturbing criminal behavior.

DC Keith Harford from Wiltshire Police’s Melksham CID reiterated the force’s stance on such crimes, stating, “Wiltshire Police treat every case involving the sexual exploitation of children extremely seriously. Bassett was convicted of making and distributing indecent images of children, and we believed that a jail sentence was the only appropriate response given the gravity of these offenses.” He also encouraged the public to report any suspicions or information related to such crimes, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.