Patrick Maughan

The sexual abuse of a 16-year-old girl took place on 3 April 2011 in Reading, where Patrick Maughan, alongside Amber Roderick and Joseph Lawrence, plied the victim with alcohol before subjecting her to rape and other forms of abuse. This group assault underscored the vulnerability of young individuals to predatory behaviour.

In December 2011, a two-week trial at Reading Crown Court resulted in Maughan's conviction by a jury for his specific offences. Sentencing on 19 January 2012 imposed a six-year term of imprisonment, with the judge emphasising the 'horrendous' quality of the acts, particularly given the force used and the multiple participants.

Victoria Griffiths, senior crown prosecutor with the Thames and Chiltern CPS, commented: 'These were horrendous offences committed. The use of force upon the 16-year-old girl and the fact that there were a number of people involved, increases the severity and seriousness of these offences.' Thames Valley Police's involvement ensured the case reached prosecution effectively.

Maughan's sentence contributes to the legal response against sexual exploitation, providing a measure of justice for the victim while serving as a warning to potential offenders.