A 30-year-old man, Adam Batley from Barnsley, has been jailed for nine years after he drugged and raped a 12-year-old girl. South Yorkshire Police stated the victim was missing from home when she was found in the company of Batley, who was 28 at the time.
Following his arrest, the girl disclosed the abuse she had suffered, including being given drink and drugs, to her social workers. Batley pleaded not guilty to rape of a child under 13 but was found guilty after a trial on 31 July.
In addition to the nine-year jail term, Batley was ordered to serve an extended licence period of 12 months upon release. He was also handed a barring order, an indefinite restraining order, and was told to sign the sex offender register indefinitely.
Det Con Alessio Godhard, the officer in charge of the case, praised the girl's bravery throughout the process. Godhard stated that Batley preyed on her vulnerabilities and used this for personal satisfaction. South Yorkshire Police said Batley showed no remorse and answered "no comment" in interviews after his arrest.