A remarkable young woman was told she had shown great courage and bravery by a judge as he sent down her vile rapist.
Shaun Bennett, now 18, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court to be sentenced for rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration of a then 13-year-old girl.
Sentencing him to seven and a half years in custody with an extended sentence of five years to be served on licence, Recorder Ian Unsworth, QC, said these were 'utterly shameful and wicked' offences.
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After Recorder Unsworth sent Bennett down, he addressed the young victim who appeared at the court with her family.
He said: "Reliving matters this week will have been very difficult.
"No-one who has read or listened to this case can be anything other than horrified by what you have been subjected to."
The judge went on to say that people will be 'humbled by your bravery and courage', not only from the assault but also sitting 'just feet away' from her attacker.
He added that the sentencing can 'not give back what is lost' and the road ahead is a 'long one' but it is hoped the sentencing would have brought about some closure.
He said: "You are a remarkable young woman. I am sure you have a bright future ahead of you.
"It is vital you understand you have done nothing wrong, you have not let down your parents or anyone else down.
"What you have done showed remarkable strength.
"I wish you well in your life ahead."
Addressing Bennett in court on Thursday, Recorder Ian Unsworth, QC, said this was one of the 'most serious and challenging cases'.
He told the court that the 18-year-old was being sentenced for an offence he committed when he was 15 and pleaded guilty to at the age of 17 - just days before his 18th birthday - adding: "Your age is important as it affects the powers available to me.
"It is vitally important the public understands this."
The judge said he is satisfied this was a 'carefully planned attack' and Bennett subjected the victim to 'horrific sexual attacks' with potential witnesses 'some distance away'.
The court heard how Bennett raped the 13-year-old before attacking her further. Just days later, the young victim was subjected to a further vile attack.
Recorder Unsworth added: "I'm abundantly satisfied there is significant risk you will commit further offences, and in doing so cause serious physical and psychological harm to someone or multiple people.
"You are a highly dangerous young man."
Anyone with information or wants to report a sexual offence is asked to call 101 where you will be spoken to by specially trained officers or you can pass information to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Support for victims is also available through the registered charity the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre Cheshire and Merseyside, who can be contacted on 01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063 or Rape and Sexual Assault Merseyside (RASA) on 0151 558 1801. In an emergency, always call 999.
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