AN 18-year-old man who instigated a sexual encounter with an underage victim has been sentenced to six years and eight months behind bars.

Dennis Rocha, 18,  of Beck Row, Mildenhall, Suffolk was sentenced at a hearing held at Swindon Crown Court today, Friday, August 16.

On April 8, 2023, Rocha added the 12-year-old victim to his social media and initiated a conversation with her aware that the victim was underage. He turned the conversation sexual and arranged to pick her up in Wiltshire the following day.

A sexual encounter then took place.

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The victim told her mother who reported it to the police and Rocha was quickly arrested, charged and then, remanded in custody.

Rocha pleaded guilty to two counts of raping a child under 13 and a one-year licence extension period was imposed.

Rocha will be subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and must sign the sex offenders’ register on release.

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Child abuse investigation team, investigating officer DC Amanda Lord: “Rocha instigated this encounter with the victim despite knowing she was underage. He knew what he was doing was illegal and had ample opportunity to cease contact with the victim, but continued and took advantage of her for his own gain.

“We take offences like these incredibly seriously and we will always look to protect children from predators such as Rocha and ensure perpetrators of sexual offences are put before the courts. I’d also like to commend the victim for her bravery and courage in speaking to us.”

Anyone who has been a victim of child abuse, or a sexual offence is encouraged to contact Wiltshire Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Victims can also seek support and counselling from the Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) who can be contacted on the helpline 01793 781916.