A paedophile rapist, Derek Harcourt, has been incarcerated for rape and additional sexual offences in Bracknell.
Derek Harcourt, 58, formerly of Wokingham Road, Bracknell, was sentenced yesterday (4/12) to 11.5 years in jail, followed by a further 4.5 years on licence.
He was also subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was permanently registered on the Sexual Offenders’ Register.
Derek Harcourt’s sentence will commence in January 2026, as he is currently serving an existing term.
He entered a guilty plea to two charges of rape of a lady over 16 years of age, three charges of sexual assault against a female, and one charge each of attack on a female over 13 including penetration, attempted sexual assault on a female, and voyeurism at the same court on Monday, 19 August.
Between 2019 and 2020, Derek Harcourt repeatedly abused a woman, recording much of the abuse on his mobile phone.
He was arrested on 28 July 2020, re-arrested on 24 January 2023 and charged via postal requisition on 12 June 2023.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Matt O’Riordan said: “I would like to pay tribute to the victim in this case for the strength, courage and patience she has shown during this investigation.
“She has remained incredibly dignified throughout, having initially shown such bravery to speak up about Harcourt.
“The judge rightly praised her victim personal statement as particularly powerful.
“Derek Harcourt exploited the trust the victim had in him to enable his offending, and I am pleased that he is now in prison where he belongs.
“Derek Harcourt told the victim no one would listen to her if she reported his offending.
“However, tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Thames Valley Police, and if you are the victim of a crime like this you will be heard. We have specially trained officers ready to listen.”
Detective Inspector Ryan Powell said: “In addition to praising the strength and bravery of the victim, I would like to put my thanks on record for the dedication and determination shown by the investigating detectives and the Crown Prosecution Service.
“Thames Valley Police is committed to tackling sexual offending and violence against women and girls.”
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