Man, 80, jailed for 'deeply disturbing' child rape

An 80-year-old man who raped and sexually abused a young girl has been jailed.

Richard Beacher, of Rudgwick, West Sussex, was charged with nine offences that occurred between 1978 and 1986, when the girl was between three and eight years old.

The victim reported the abuse to police in 2021.

Beacher pleaded guilty to one count of rape, four counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency and was sentenced at Hove Crown Court to 18 years in prison.

His sentence was reduced from 24 years for pleading guilty.

Sophie Williams, of Sussex Police said: "This is a shocking and deeply disturbing case where the victim was subjected to abhorrent and prolonged sexual abuse, beginning from as young as three-years-old."

She thanked the victim and a witness who came forward for their courage, adding it was "pivotal" in the outcome.

"This case serves as a clear reminder that even after 40 years, offenders will be held accountable and justice will be delivered," Williams added.

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