A man has been jailed for 13 years after being convicted of sexually abusing a vulnerable child over a two-year period.
Stephen Torr, 46, of Nags Head Lane, Wellingborough, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Wednesday after being found guilty at a second trial last year.
He was convicted of one count of assault by penetration, one count of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent and three counts of sexual assault.
Investigation
Bedfordshire Police said Torr first came to the force’s attention in October 2020, when the victim disclosed to someone that she had been abused when she was younger.
An investigation was launched, but before it could be completed, the victim sadly died.
A first trial in February 2025 ended with a hung jury. Torr was later convicted at a second trial in September.
Alongside the prison sentence, Torr was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. He will also remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register until further order.
Detective constable David Widdicombe said: “First and foremost, our thoughts remain with the victim’s family. This was a truly harrowing case.
“Despite immense challenges, the victim showed remarkable courage in disclosing what had happened, and today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of Torr’s actions.
“Although she is sadly no longer with us to see this outcome, we hope this result brings a measure of justice for her and some comfort to those who loved and supported her.
“We remain committed to pursuing offenders who target vulnerable people and ensuring they are held fully accountable for their actions.”
Information about support and reporting sexual abuse is available from Bedfordshire Police.
No images have been made available to the media.
