Stuart Hand

A man from Long Ashton, North Somerset, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison following his conviction for the rape of a child and related sexual offences. Stuart Hand, aged 38, appeared at Bristol Crown Court on 9 May for sentencing after a trial earlier in the year where he was found guilty of serious crimes against a vulnerable minor.

The court heard that the victim, a girl aged between 13 and 15, had left her home following an argument. Hand picked her up in his Mercedes vehicle, which also contained other individuals at the time. Once inside the car, the victim was given drugs and alcohol. After dropping off the other passengers, Hand drove the girl back to his residence in Long Ashton. There, he kissed her in the vehicle before forcing her into the house, where he compelled her to engage in sexual activity and ultimately raped her.

• One count of rape of a child aged 13-15
• Three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child aged 13-15
• One count of causing a child aged 13-15 to engage in sexual activity
• One count of abduction of a child aged 13-15

Following the assault, Hand returned the victim to her home. He subsequently attempted to contact her multiple times via social media. A victim personal statement was read in court, in which the girl described the profound impact of the incident, stating it left her 'traumatised' and that Hand 'took away [her] sense of safety and trust'.

Her Honour Judge Macmillan, during sentencing, described the offences as 'extremely serious'. She remarked, 'You became the thing that parents worry about. You took advantage of a vulnerable child.' Hand received 12 years' imprisonment for the rape charge, with concurrent sentences of four years for abduction, six months for the three counts of engaging in sexual activity, and three years for causing the child to engage in sexual activity. Additionally, the judge imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order against the victim, both indefinite until further order.

The case was investigated by Avon and Somerset Police, who released an image of Hand in connection with the proceedings. This sentencing underscores the severe consequences for those who exploit and harm children, highlighting the justice system's commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals.