Zachary Selby

Zachary Selby, now 23 and residing in Anwick near Sleaford, Lincolnshire, has been sentenced to three years in prison for committing serious sexual offences against two young children over a decade ago. The case, heard at Lincoln Crown Court, revealed that Selby carried out his first attack at the age of just 11, when he raped a six-year-old girl. Four years later, at the age of 15, he subjected another six-year-old boy to multiple sex attacks, including rape.

Prosecutor Nick Bleaney outlined the harrowing details during the trial, explaining that Selby warned both victims not to disclose the abuse to anyone. Despite these threats, the offences eventually came to light, leading to Selby's arrest and charges. Selby, of River Lane, Anwick, denied all allegations, including rape and sexual assault of the girl, as well as the rape of the boy. However, following a jury trial, he was found guilty on all counts.

Sentencing Selby, Recorder Gareth Evans QC took into account the offender's young age at the time of the crimes, which influenced a reduction in the jail term under sentencing guidelines. Addressing Selby directly, the judge stated: "You played with children who were almost half your age and you played childish games. You are still not fully mature. But you knew what you were doing was wrong and you told each of your victims not to tell anybody." Evans further noted Selby's initial lack of remorse, describing how he had lied to the jury, but acknowledged a recent admission of responsibility. The judge emphasised: "Until recently there was no remorse on your part. You lied to the jury and it is only now that you have conceded you were responsible for what happened. The only sentence that can be passed on you is an immediate custodial sentence."

In mitigation, defence barrister Grace Hale highlighted Selby's youth at the time of the offences and his subsequent admission to a probation officer. She told the court: "He was extremely young when he committed these offences and he has now come clean. He has had the courage to accept these matters." Despite this, Selby was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, underscoring the gravity of his actions. The case was reported by the Sleaford Standard on 3rd October 2018, drawing attention to child protection issues in the local community.