Cornwall man jailed for child sex offences
A Cornwall man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of a number of sexual offences against a girl aged under 13.
James George, aged 36, who has links to the Camborne and Helston areas, was sentenced at Truro Crown Court by His Honour Judge Simon Carr on Thursday 12 June, after being found guilty by a jury of two sexual assaults by penetration on a child under 13 and two sexual assaults on a child under 13.
George must also sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
During the trial, the court heard how the offences came to light when the victim bravely messaged her mum, saying that she had been the victim of sexual abuse on several occasions.
The abuse was reported to police and officers attended George’s address and arrested him.
In interview, George denied any sexual abuse had taken place.
Detective Inspector Andy Shorten said: “I would like to thank the victim in this case for having the bravery to speak up and describe what had happened to her.
“George spared no thought for his victim and never had the courage to admit what he had done, meaning the victim had to give evidence in court.
“This investigation has been a real team effort involving various officers in Cornwall’s Public Protection Unit and we’re pleased that James George has now been brought to justice.
“We will continue to investigate all allegations of sexual abuse reported to us, regardless of when it took place.”
Support available
If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report information and crimes on our website.
Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
There are lots of organisations and support agencies available across Devon and Cornwall that can help provide support.
For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available, please visit our support pages by clicking here.
Advice and support is also offered by our partner agencies:
• National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
The Stop It Now charity provides an anonymous helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and can help if you are worried about your own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or have any concerns about another adult or young person www.stopitnow.org.uk
Victim care
If you have been affected by crime, please visit Home - Victim Care Devon & Cornwall (victimcare-dc.org) to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
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