A man who sexually assaulted a child has been jailed for six years.
The incidents took place approximately 20 years ago in Nottingham when Ian Hudspeth was in his early 30s and began abusing the girl by touching her inappropriately.
The abuse stopped a year later – but the impact on the victim never went away.
In May 2019, the then 21-year-old courageously told her boyfriend what had happened all those years ago.
The boyfriend comforted her and took the day off work so he could support her as she bravely told her mother and grandmother.
The police were then informed and Hudspeth attended a voluntary police interview.
He denied the allegations but was ultimately charged after the victim provided a detailed and consistent account of his crimes.
The matter was heading for trial until Hudspeth, of Forester Street, Netherfield, entered guilty pleas to five charges of indecent assault and four charges of assault, all on the same victim.
He was sentenced on Thursday (10 February) at Nottingham Crown Court. In addition to a six-year prison sentence, the 52-year-old will be required to sign the sex offenders’ register for life.
Following the sentencing, investigating officer PC Dave Randall said: “Hudspeth is a dangerous sexual predator and assaulted his victim when she was a defenceless child.
“The victim was very courageous to come forward and report what he had done.
“I am pleased we have managed to get justice for the victim and that Hudspeth will spend years behind bars.
“These were crimes he thought he would get away with but he was wrong and will now face the consequences of his actions.
“I hope this sentence brings the victim closure and enables her to start moving on with her life.
“I also hope this result gives others confidence that Nottinghamshire Police will always be ready to listen to anyone who would like to report offences of this nature.
“We will support you every step of the way and ensure that we investigate thoroughly and leave no stone unturned to bring the perpetrator to justice.”
