Cathays man jailed for rape of a child

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A man has been jailed for 18 years after being found guilty of raping a child.

Julian Hobbs, 36, of Cathays was sentenced to 15 years, with an extension of three years at Merthyr Crown Court today (March 16) after being found guilty multiple child sex offences.

Hobbs was found guilty of the following offences, following a three day trial between December 15 – 18 at Newport Crown Court:

• Three counts of Rape a girl under 13
• Two counts of Offender 18 or over cause a child under 13 to watch / look at an image of sexual activity
• One count of Cause / incite a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity – no penetration

His conviction comes after the victim bravely reported Hobb’s actions to a teacher at school.

Investigating officer DC Geraint Strakis said:“I commend the victim, who is still a child, for her bravery in reporting Hobbs’ disgusting actions. No child should have to endure this type of abuse.

“Despite his continued attempts to avoid culpability for his actions by pleading guilty, I’m thankful to see he has been held account for his predatory nature.”

We never underestimate how difficult it is for survivors of sexual abuse to speak out and report.

But we hope cases like this one provide reassurance that victims will be listened to, treated with dignity and respect, and will be supported throughout the judicial process.

If you have been sexually abused, and you are not yet ready to report to police, please don’t suffer in silence. A wealth of information and details of support services can be found here.