Reggie Cannon, a 24-year-old paedophile from Stanley, County Durham, has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison for grooming and raping a 14-year-old schoolgirl in a park. Cannon, who was 19 at the time of the offences, began messaging the victim on Instagram, falsely claiming he was 16 and still at school.
Grooming and Assault
Over several weeks, Cannon exchanged messages with the girl and met her after school on multiple occasions. On one occasion, he raped and sexually assaulted her in a park. The victim bravely reported the abuse, leading to Cannon's arrest and subsequent charges.
Court Proceedings
At a previous court hearing, Cannon admitted to rape, sexual assault, and grooming. He also pleaded guilty to failing to comply with sex offender notification requirements after not disclosing a change of address. At Durham Crown Court on Friday, he was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison.
In addition to the prison term, Cannon received a ten-year sexual harm prevention order and a ten-year restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim. He will remain on the sex offenders' register for life.
Police Statement
Leanne Hogg, investigative officer for Durham Constabulary, praised the victim's courage. She said: 'I'd like to commend the young girl for the strength she has shown throughout this investigation and subsequent court process. By standing up to Cannon and having her voice heard, she has helped to take a dangerous predator off the streets, who poses a clear risk to women and girls.'
