A York man who raped a child multiple times has been jailed for 22 years and eight months today (Thursday).
Ian Moffat, 63, was also found guilty of sexual assaults, and admitted possessing more than 100 indecent images of children.
Following the sentence, police praised the courage of his victim for coming forward.
Detectives launched an investigation when the victim disclosed the abuse in December 2023.
Moffat’s digital devices were seized and examined by the police Digital Forensics Unit.
It was discovered that his desktop computer contained 149 indecent images of children. His was then further arrested for possession of indecent images of children.
These included 21 Category A, 18 Category B and 110 Category C indecent photographs of children.
He pleaded guilty to the images charges, but denied any other offences.
On 9 July at York Crown Court Moffat was found guilty of:
- Two counts of sexually assaulting a girl
- Six counts of raping a girl.
As well as the jail sentence, the court today placed him on the sex offenders register indefinitely and issued him with a sexual harm prevention order.
The court also ordered the destruction of a computer tower.
Detective Constable James Stewart, from North Yorkshire Police’s Safeguarding Investigation Team, said: “During each interview, Moffat only replied with no comment and by pleading not guilty shows his lack of acceptance of any responsibility for the horrendous sexual abuse he subjected his victim to for a number of years.
“I praise the victim for having the courage to report the abuse she endured, and commend her bravery for seeing through the investigation.
“I hope justice being served to Moffat helps the victim with some form of closure, to help her to proceed with her life the best she can.
“I also hope this helps other victims find the bravery to report to police, please know that it doesn’t matter when the abuse took place, you will be listened to.”
Reporting rape and sexual abuse
Make a report via the police website or call 101 and speak to the Force Control Room.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, always dial 999 for an emergency response.
IDAS is an independent charity that supports victims of sexual violence and abuse regardless of whether you have reported it to the police. Sexual Violence Help and Advice
Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111 or at Childline | Childline
If you prefer not to go direct to the police and are not in immediate danger, can contact North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), on 0330 223 0362 or visit acerhousesarc.co.uk
You can also contact the Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.
