A MAN has been sentenced for sex offences against young girl.

William Harris, also known as William Elliott, 29, a handyman, of Aldervale Cottages, Crowborough, was given a 13-and-a-half year prison sentence, with an extended licence supervision requirement of a further three years, at Lewes Crown Court on Monday (20 January).

He had pleaded guilty at a previous hearing to raping the girl, then aged under 10, in 2018 and with making the most serious category of indecent images, of the same girl.

His pleas of not guilty to another count of rape and to one of sexual touching, both against the same girl, were accepted by the court.

Detective Constable David Peek of the East Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said; “Harris exploited this vulnerable and innocent young girl for his own sexual gratification, but his offending came to notice when she reported what was happening to a member of her family.

“We were immediately informed and Harris was arrested. His guilty pleas at least saved his victim having to give evidence at court.

“This case shows again that we will always take robust action on such reports, bringing the offenders to justice wherever possible and ensuring that victims, of whatever age have access to specialist and advice and support.”

For information on the investigation sexual offences and support available, see the Sussex Police website.