Rapist Jailed for 20 Years After Two Brave Women Speak Out
Two courageous women, abused as girls, have helped lock up their attacker for good. William Shepherd, 59, has been sentenced to 20 years behind bars for horrific sex crimes against them.
Shepherd Found Guilty of Multiple Sex Offences
A jury convicted Shepherd of two counts of rape, 11 counts of indecent assault, and nine counts of child indecency. The shocking abuse happened repeatedly when the victims were just children, all for Shepherd’s “perverted pleasure”.
The six-day trial ended with a unanimous guilty verdict on September 30. Judge Ray Singh delayed sentencing to give the victims time to submit impact statements detailing their trauma.
Victims Praise Bravery as Shepherd Gets Tough Sentence
Shepherd, from Hareson Road, Newton Aycliffe, must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for release. He’s also banned indefinitely under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and must notify authorities as a sex offender.
“This has been an absolutely traumatic time for both victims who have shown incredible bravery by coming forward and determination to see the case through,” said PC Simon Spellman, who led the investigation.
“We hope Shepherd’s sentence brings some closure to the victims, allowing them to start rebuilding their lives. We always encourage anyone who thinks they have been abused to come forward and seek help.”
Speak Up, Stay Safe
If you or someone you know has been a victim of abuse, contact the police on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.
