[A] Carlisle man has been jailed for 16 years for five counts of rape and one count of engaging in sexual activity with a child.
Christopher Paul Charlton, aged 46, previously of Jubilee Road, was sentenced today (15th March) at Carlisle Crown Court.
Charlton was sentenced following being found guilty by a jury.
The offences relate to incidents between 2012 and 2016 against a female child.
Detective Constable Lisa Atkinson, North Cumbria CID, said: “Christopher Charlton is a dangerous offender who groomed and exploited a child for his own sexual gratification.
“Charlton used a number of grooming tactics so he could control his victim. He would buy her gifts and would often ply her with alcohol, to the point where she would pass out, before carrying out his attacks.
“He did not care for her age and has denied his actions the whole way through this investigation. He has shown no remorse whatsoever.
“I hope that today’s sentencing can bring some form of closure to the victim, who has been extremely brave in reporting what happened to her.
“Any victim of a sexual offence can be reassured that their case will be investigated professionally and sensitively.”
If you wish to report a crime or speak to an officer about an incident, please contact Cumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
If you have been affected by rape or sexual assault, contact The Bridgeway Sexual Assault Support Service’s 24/7 free helpline on 0808 118 6432.
