A Swindon man, Matthew Vandross, 30, of Homington Avenue, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for committing grave child sex offences, including rape.
The sentencing took place at Salisbury Crown Court on the 15th of November after Vandross was found guilty in September of the following charges:
- Sexual assault by touching
- Digital penetration x 21
- Rape of a child under 13 x 4
During the hearing, Vandross received a 24-year sentence, with a minimum of 20 years to be served for the offences which occurred between October 2020 and May 2021.
The victim, under the age of 10, reported the incidents to the police with the support of a friend who had witnessed the traumatic events.
Detective Constable Mel Neal, a member of the Child Abuse Investigation Team, expressed her satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating, “These are unspeakable crimes, and I’m pleased that the courts have recognised this by handing Vandross a lengthy jail sentence.”
Vandross, deemed a predatory individual, exploited the vulnerability of a young child, subjecting her to a truly horrific ordeal. He further made violent threats towards her if she reported the offences, denying them consistently and forcing the victims to endure the trauma of a trial.
Detective Constable Neal commended the bravery of the two children involved, emphasising that their courage played a pivotal role in securing a successful prosecution. Despite enduring a traumatic ordeal, both girls displayed extraordinary bravery and maturity beyond their years.
Detective Constable Neal underscored the commitment of the Child Abuse Investigation Team to protect individuals like these young victims and secure justice. She urged all victims of sexual abuse, regardless of the time elapsed since the offences, to report to the police. The team is dedicated to targeting dangerous offenders and ensuring they are brought before the courts.
