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27
Mar
Prolific sex offender who abused girls in Harrogate area jailed
A sex offender who abused two girls in the Harrogate area has been handed a lengthy prison sentence.
Charles Andrew Chapman, of Sycamore Road in Selby, was today sentenced to 20 years behind bars after being found guilty of 19 sex offences at York Crown Court on February 27.
North Yorkshire Police today said the offences happened more than a decade ago.
The 61-year-old was convicted of:
- rape of a girl under 13
- assault a girl under 13 by penetration
- cause or incite a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity (both penetration and no penetration)
- cause or incite a girl aged 13-15 to engage in penetrative sexual activity
- assault a girl under 13 by penetration
- assault a girl under 13 by touching
- engage in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15
- engage in non-penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15
- engage in sexual activity in the presence of a child under 13
- attempt to engage in sexual activity in the presence of a child aged 13-15
Alongside the custodial sentence, Chapman must also serve an additional year on licence and will be on the sex offenders register for life.
He has also been made subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.
Detective sergeant Kirsty Smith, who led the investigation against Chapman, said today:
I highly commend the bravery of both victims in reporting the horrendous sexual abuse they suffered as children at the hands of this vile man.
Chapman denied the allegations throughout the whole investigation, therefore making the victims go through the nerve-wracking process of giving evidence against him at court.
The offences are of the most serious nature and Chapman has been forced to face justice thanks to the courage and determination the victims.
I hope this outcome gives them a feeling of hope for a happier future.
Also, this case shows that it is never too late to report sexual abuse. We are here to help and make sure you receive the best care and support.
Reporting rape of sexual abuse to the police
The police shared a number of ways to report sex crimes to the force – no matter how long ago they took place. You can find them below:
• Make a report via our website or call 101 and speak to the Force Control Room.
• If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, always dial 999 for an emergency response.
• IDAS is an independent charity that supports victims of sexual violence and abuse regardless of whether you have reported it to the police. Sexual Violence Help and Advice.
• Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
• Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111 or Childline
• Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Victims who would prefer not to go direct to the police and are not in immediate danger, can contact North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), on 0330 223 0362.
• You can also contact the Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.
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