Ben Prothero 27

Description

An evil paedophile who committed multiple rapes and sexual offences against children and young women has been put behind bars. Ben Prothero admitted committing 17 sex offences, some against kids under 13 over a sustained period from 2008 to 2020.

Prothero of Metcalfe Close, in Ross-On-Wye, Herefordshire, had pleaded guilty earlier in the year and was jailed for 24 years at Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday (November 29). He was told he would serve 18 years in prison and a further six years to remain on licence as a dangerous offender. 

He was also now listed on the Sex Offenders Register for life. He was convicted after a ‘long and thorough’ investigation by Hereford CID’s Vulnerability Team who praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward to outline the abuse they suffered.

Prothero's offences included:

• Two counts of rape of a child under 13
• Five counts of rape of a female under 18
• Attempted rape
• Causing a female under 15 to engage in penetrative sexual activity
• Penetration of a female under 16
• Engage in controlling/coercive behaviour
• Two counts of sexual assault on a child under 13
• Two counts of sexual activity with a child under 18
• Two counts of sexual activity with a child under 16

The 26-year-old was described by police as a ‘predator and bully’. Detective Constable Emma O’Hare, from West Mercia Police, who led the investigation, said: “Prothero committed these horrendous crimes against children and women over many years who weren’t able to defend or protect themselves.

“He was a bully, a predator and controlled them by hurting them and changing their lives forever. As pleased as I am with the lengthy sentence, the true tribute is paid to the victims, who not only survived despite his best efforts to break them, but who then showed immense courage and bravery in coming forward about his abuse and rapes.”

DC O’Hare continued: “My hope is that this significant prison sentence will bring some measure of comfort to those whose lives have been forever damaged by his cowardly and predatory actions. This sentence needs to serve as a reminder to those who think that abusing women and girls will go unchallenged.

“Survivors are strong and with our support, patience and understanding an investigation will uncover the truth about their abusers’ actions, who will face consequences. West Mercia Police remains committed to seeking justice for rape victims and survivors, and we, the police and wider support services are here for them.”

West Mercia Police offered support to anyone who may have been the victim of any sexual offence and said they can report it to them online, on 101 or via West Mercia's Victim Advice Line on 0800 952 3000 or its website.

It said: “This is a free, independent and confidential support service. In an emergency always dial 999. If you do not feel comfortable speaking to police officers, you can contact a referral centre which specialises in helping victims of rape and sexual assault - including providing medical care and counselling.”Anyone wanting information and details on how to contact or refer can visit the Get Help page of the Rape Crisis website.