Locations
Barnsley, South Yorkshire
Description
The incredible bravery of a vulnerable girl disclosing a horrific incident has resulted in a man being handed a custodial sentence for rape of a child.
Following a missing from home episode, the girl, who was aged 12 at the time, was found in the company of then 28-year-old Adam Batley.
Batley was promptly arrested and an investigation launched.
The victim made some initial disclosers to her social workers of the abuse Batley subjected her to, and this was promptly reported to the BSAFE, a dedicated child sexual exploitation team in Barnsley. The victim later courageously disclosed to officers how Batley had plied her with drugs and raped her while she was semi-conscious under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Batley was re-arrested and interviewed, but failed to admit the horrific actions, answering 'no comment' in his police interview. Batley further showed no remorse and pled not guilty in one of his first court appearances, meaning the girl had to go through an upsetting court trial.
Detective Constable Alessio Godhard, who was the officer in charge of the case said:
"No words can explain just how brave the girl was during this whole process, from her initial disclosure, through to the sentencing at court.
"Batley preyed on her vulnerabilities and used this to gain personal satisfaction.
"The girl in this case will continue to be supported by the BSAFE team and colleagues from social care.
"We take any report of sexual abuse seriously - you will be believed and listened to. Please report it to us so we can investigate and get these dangerous offenders behind bars."
Batley, 30, from Barnsley, was found guilty of one count of rape of a girl under the age of 13 on 31 July, following a seven day trial at Sheffield Crown Court.
He appeared at the same court today (19 August) and was handed a nine year custodial sentence and an indefinite Restraining Order.