Locations
Holcombe Drive, Burnley, Lancashire, BB10
Description
A paedophile from Burnley who committed horrific sexual crimes against two children has been jailed for 17 years.
Simon Richards, 50, was sentenced alongside his partner, Natalie Rabie, 46, who admitted conspiring to incite a child under 16 to engage in sexual activity.
The pair, both of Holcombe Drive, Burnley, were sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on Monday (June 9) having previously resided in Surrey.
Richards pleaded guilty to 11 charges including multiple counts of rape of a child, attempted rape of a child, and making and distributing indecent images of a child.
Richards and Rabie were first arrested in June 2023 after the mother of one of the victims discovered sexual communications between Richards and the child, including the sharing of indecent imagery.
During police interviews, Richards replied 'no comment' throughout.
A thorough investigation by Surrey Police's child abuse team uncovered the extent of Richards' offending in the county.
For the offences of rape and attempted rape against one victim he received a nine-year sentence.
For offences against the second victim, including rape and sexual assault, and for the distribution of indecent images, he received a further eight years.
His sentences will be served consecutively.
The judge deemed Richards to be a dangerous offender, and he will be added to the Registered Sex Offenders list for life.
Both Richards and Rabie will be handed sexual harm prevention orders and indefinite restraining orders preventing them from any contact with the victims for the rest of their lives.
Rabie was sentenced to 20 months in prison for her crimes.
Investigating officer Harriet Francos said: “The bravery of the children involved in this investigation has been incredible.
"Their support for this case, alongside that of key witnesses,s has been vital in putting these predators behind bars.
“Richards in particular, groomed these young people and poses a serious risk to children.
"It is a relief that he is now in prison and will have very strict conditions on him for the rest of his life.
“I would urge anyone who has been the victim of sexual abuse, to come forward and report it to us in the knowledge that you will be listened to, believed and supported.”