Rapist sentenced to 13 years in prison after being convicted of child sex crimes

A 27-year-old man who raped a teenage child has begun a 13-year prison sentence.

Aaron Roberts, of Paulton, was found guilty by a jury of two sex crimes committed against a girl several years ago.

He was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Monday (October 21), with the judge saying an extension was necessary to protect the public.

The victim in this case provided a statement to the court explaining the impact Roberts’ crime continues to have on her.

She said: “Emotionally, the crime you committed tore me to pieces. I have never felt so isolated and alone in my life.

“My friendship group disappeared because they were happy, innocent, naive children; I was a child when you took my life.

“They couldn’t understand or comprehend the trauma I had experienced and was still suffering. I had no friends. I feel like a stranger in society with a sign on my head and everyone is looking at me, pointing and talking about me.

“You tore my world into pieces, you touched every part of my life and I don’t know how I will cope with this and get my life back to normal.

“There is one word I use to describe the feeling of helplessness you left me with. I’m mad at myself for making me feel this way.

She also highlighted the incredible support she has received from her family over the past few years.

Roberts was found guilty of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault. He also pleaded guilty to sexual activity in the presence of a child, which relates to a separate case involving another victim.

Judge Euan Ambrose sentenced Roberts to 13 years in prison, after his release he will be eligible for an extended license for 10 years. Roberts will also be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life.

Judge Ambrose said: “It is impossible to remain moved by the suffering you have inflicted on the victim and her family.

“I have assessed that you pose a significant risk to members of the public and a longer sentence is appropriate.”

The officer in charge of the case, DS Darren Weston, recognized the victim’s extraordinary courage

He said: “The bravery of the victim in coming forward to the police is testament to her character and confidence in the criminal justice system.

“She was a child and the victim of terrible crimes at the hands of a dangerous man who refused to accept his actions until a unanimous jury found him guilty.

“By coming forward and testifying in court, she undoubtedly protected other members of the community from Roberts’ predatory and disgusting behavior.

“We hope that this sentence will help her deal with and one day heal the trauma she still faces, and will also give confidence to others who have been victims of rape or sexual crimes to come forward to the police knowing that we will do so. to do everything in our power to bring them justice.”