Paedophile Sentenced to Six Years Following Victim’s Brave Testimony

Wayne Harris of Smithy Close, Coleford, has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of multiple offences of child sexual abuse committed nearly two decades ago. Harris, now 41, was convicted of six charges related to the abuse of a young boy when the victim was under the age of 13.

During the trial at Gloucester Crown Court, the victim courageously shared the profound impact the abuse had on his life. In a victim impact statement, he revealed how his trauma led to struggles with anger, alcohol, and drug use throughout his youth. “Since I was a kid, I have always had problems with anger. I was often getting kicked out of school,” he said. “I didn’t tell anyone what had happened because I was embarrassed and didn’t want anyone to know.”

The court heard that Harris assaulted the boy multiple times in his early twenties and engaged in sexual activity with a woman in the child’s presence for his own gratification. Despite these facts, Harris denied the allegations and claimed the victim fabricated the story. However, the jury took less than an hour on April 3 to deliver a guilty verdict on charges including causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity and sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Sentencing took place on July 21, with the judge imposing a six-year prison term. Detective Constable Victoria Bygrave, the lead investigator, praised the victim’s bravery and highlighted the determination of law enforcement and the justice system to pursue justice regardless of how much time has passed. “Harris believed he had escaped accountability, but his lies could not hide the truth,” Bygrave said. “This case underscores that sexual violence victims will be heard and supported, no matter their gender.”

She also acknowledged the stigma faced by male victims and encouraged anyone affected by sexual violence to come forward, promising unwavering support throughout investigations. The victim’s decision to speak out despite years of pain stands as a powerful testament to his strength and resilience.