A 34-year-old man from Bedford has been convicted and sentenced following a prolonged investigation into a series of offences against the same female victim.
Zac Porter-Harris, of George Street, Bedford, was jailed on 18 July for a total of eight years for sexually assaulting the woman on a number of occasions, in one instance attending her home under false pretences and abusing her despite repeated pleas for him to leave.
In sentencing, the judge described Harris’s actions as “predatory, abusive and targeted.”
The victim, who was supported by a dedicated team from Bedfordshire Police, has spoken out about her experience to help anyone else who may be suffering in silence to come forward and report sexual assault.
“I honestly feel totally numb to what he did to me. I have tried to lock it away. I know it’s there and I don’t think I have properly dealt with it,” she said.
“I have been really reluctant to speak to anyone and unlock the trauma as I am so worried about what the ramifications will be physically and mentally.”
Bedfordshire Police’s detective sergeant Joanna Tyrrell, who led the investigation, said: “Porter-Harris carried out a sustained campaign of predatory and abusive behaviour towards the victim, who he knew socially.
“Despite clear boundaries, Porter-Harris persistently pursued the woman and targeted her for his own gratification.
“This case highlights the importance of listening to and supporting victims of crime. The victim demonstrated immense courage throughout the four-year investigation and legal proceedings. Her strength and cooperation were instrumental in securing the conviction.”
On Friday (18 July) at Luton Crown Court, Porter-Harris was sentenced to a total of eight years’ imprisonment for two counts of assault by penetration and one of sexual assault.
He will also be made subject to an indefinite restraining order against the victim and be added to the Sex Offenders Register.
You can find out more about the support available for those who have experienced sexual assault on the Bedfordshire Police’s website.
There is no time limit to reporting sexual offences. You can report via 101 or the specialist reporting tool at beds.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences.
