Between March 2020 and July 2021, Philip Nichols raped his victim up to five times per week. He told her that if she did not let him have sex with her, he would kill someone she loved.
DC Emma Blackburn, investigating, said: “This is a horrific case that has involved the sustained abuse of a young girl.
“Nichols would subject his victim to abhorrent, prolonged rapes. On every occasion he would photograph and video the abuse taking place. In interview, the victim estimated that she had been raped by Nichols over 100 times.
“Nobody should ever have to suffer the way this girl has suffered, and no length of sentence feels like justice. I can only hope the victim can take some comfort that Nichols will never be able to harm her again and I can only commend her bravery and strength that has led to this result.”
The abuse came to light after the girl confided in a family member in October 2021. Nichols was arrested on 7 October and admitted his crimes in interview. He was subsequently charged the following day on 8 October 2021.
The 38-year-old pleaded guilty to the following charges:
• Rape of a female under 16 (vaginal)
• Rape of a female under 16 (vaginal) on no fewer than 50 occasions
• Rape of a female under 16 (oral)
• Rape of a female under 16 (oral) on no fewer than 9 occasions
• Assault by penetration of a female under 16 on no fewer than 50 occasions
• Attempt anal rape
Nichols will also remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and there is an indefinite restraining order in place preventing him from ever contacting his victim.
