A 51-year-old man has been sentenced to prison for sexually abusing a young girl in Southampton over a period of more than a year.
Brian Wills was handed a sentence of three years and ten months at Southampton Crown Court on Monday, 21st July, after pleading guilty to multiple charges of sexual assault.
The court heard that Wills, from Hopes Avenue in Dalmellington, East Ayrshire, attacked the victim – who was under ten years old – on 20th July last year. Police were contacted following this incident.
During questioning, the young victim disclosed to officers that Wills had sexually abused her on several other occasions between July 2023 and July 2024 in Southampton.
Wills faced five charges in total: four counts of assault by touching and one count of assault by penetration. He entered guilty pleas to all charges when he appeared at Southampton Crown Court on 2nd June this year.
Detective Constable Gemma Boyle from the Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT) praised the victim’s bravery in speaking out about the abuse.
“This was a shocking series of offences against a young girl, who has been so incredibly brave in talking about what happened to her,” DC Boyle said.
“It takes such courage to do so, particularly at such a young age, and this must not be understated.
“Sexual offences involving children often have a devastating and lifelong impact on victims, and can be some of the most complex and horrific cases for police to investigate.”
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She added that CAIT officers are specially trained and dedicated to investigating child abuse cases, bringing perpetrators to justice, and supporting those affected.
“I hope the outcome of this investigation can give confidence to those who have been abused and are suffering in silence that they are not alone, and we will do everything in our power to target those responsible,” DC Boyle concluded.
Police are encouraging anyone who has experienced child sexual abuse to contact them on 101, where conversations can be held in confidence.
For those not ready to speak with police, specialist support services are available to help deal with the impact of abuse.
Information on independent support services in the local area can be found on the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website.
Alternative contact options include Childline on 0800 11 11, or for adults who have been affected, the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.
