James Morrison, a man with no fixed address from Chippenham, has been sentenced to over 13 years in prison after admitting to a series of appalling crimes against a young boy. The 31-year-old received a 19-year and four-month sentence, with 13 years and four months to be spent in prison and six years under extended licence. These charges stem from the ‘horrific’ crimes he committed, including threatening his victim.
On July 18, Morrison pleaded guilty to four counts of raping a child, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a child at Salisbury Crown Court. His sentencing at Winchester Crown Court on November 22 also included a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Wiltshire Police has commended the victim for his courage in coming forward, as Morrison’s threats had left him feeling isolated and unable to seek help. Detective Investigator Francesca Mason from the Child Abuse Investigation Team emphasized the victim’s bravery, stating that his actions were far beyond his years following a deeply traumatic experience.
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Mason also urged other victims of sexual abuse to report their experiences to the authorities, emphasizing the need to hold offenders accountable and bring justice to those affected by such crimes.