Sheffield Man Found Guilty of 33 Child Sex Offences
A 48-year-old Sheffield man has been convicted of multiple horrific child sex crimes after a harrowing trial at Sheffield Crown Court.
Paul Andrew Degenhart’s Shocking Crimes Uncovered
Paul Andrew Degenhart, once of Raeburn Road, faced 34 charges including indecent assault, indecency with a child, rape, and buggery. The offences date back to the 1980s and 1990s, involving four young victims in Sheffield.
After three days of intense jury deliberations, Degenhart was found guilty of 33 counts: 20 indecent assaults, six counts of indecency with a child, four rapes, two buggery charges, and one attempted rape.
Investigator Praises Victims’ Courage
“I wish to firstly commend the victims in this case, who have each demonstrated tremendous bravery in relaying to the police details of their horrific sexual abuse,” said Detective Constable Helen Barrett, who led the probe. “Degenhart refused to accept responsibility, forcing victims to recount their traumatic experiences in court. They showed dignity and courage throughout.” “He groomed and abused the victims, repeatedly subjecting them to sexual violence and threatening them to keep silent. The jury delivered guilty verdicts based on the strength of the evidence.” “Degenhart has been convicted of serious sexual offences and I hope the victims find some closure and justice from this verdict.”
Degenhart to Be Sentenced in November
Degenhart remains in custody ahead of his sentencing hearing at Sheffield Crown Court on Wednesday 18 November. The case delivers a stark reminder of the long fight for justice survivors face.
