A predator who raped a child in Wiltshire ‘refused to attend his sentencing hearing’.
35-year-old Paul Keith Buckland repeatedly abused a youngster about a decade ago – when he was living in Tidworth.
Having been found guilty of rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, engaging in sexual activity with a child and causing a child to watch a sexual act, he was jailed for 20 years.
As well as the custodial sentence, the defendant, of Prestonbury Close, Plymouth, must register as a sex offender for life and was made subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Judge Mousley KC said he considered the fact Buckland failed to attend the courtroom for sentence and aggravating factor and increased his term according.
Investigating officer DC Louise Thomas, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team, said: “Buckland is an abhorrent individual who committed unspeakable acts to, and in the presence of, a child.
“Actions such as his have long-lasting and traumatic effects on their victims, which can manifest in myriad ways.
“I’d like to commend the victim in speaking to us about her experiences – I understand how difficult it must have been for her and I hope that this sentence can bring some sort of relief, knowing Buckland is behind bars.
“This case is a reminder that Wiltshire Police will always investigate reports of sexual assault and child abuse, no matter when the incident took place.
“This incident took place more than a decade ago but didn’t come to light until 2020 when it was bravely reported to us by the victim and her family.
“Please be reassured that the CAIT team here in Wiltshire Police is totally committed to targeting dangerous offenders like Buckland and protecting innocent victims.”
If you wish to report concerns regarding child sexual abuse, please call police on 101, regardless of how much time has passed since the offending.
