In a significant judicial ruling at Exeter Crown Court, 20-year-old Fenton Clapp from Tiverton has been sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison after admitting to multiple sexual offences against two teenage girls. The court convicted Clapp on 13 charges, including sexual activity with a child, assault by penetration, and the creation of indecent images of a child.

Additionally, Clapp faced convictions for his involvement in the illegal drug trade, specifically concerning the supply of Class A substances like cocaine and MDMA, as well as Class B drugs. His criminal activities also extended to theft, for which he has been further penalized.

The severity of Clapp's actions has led to his placement on the Sex Offenders Register, alongside a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order designed to restrict his interactions and prevent further harm. The court also issued six restraining orders against Clapp, emphasizing the danger he poses, particularly to underage girls.

The emotional impact on Clapp’s victims was palpable during the trial. In their impact statements, one victim expressed enduring trauma and manipulation due to Clapp's actions, while another recounted the lasting scars and painful memories inflicted by him.

Detective Constable Andrew Stacey, involved in the case, highlighted the importance of the victims' bravery throughout the legal process. "Clapp is a dangerous and manipulative individual with no regard for the individuals he hurt," Stacey commented. The detective also noted that a damning pre-sentence report played a crucial role in extending Clapp's prison term.

The sentencing, delivered on April 30, aims to provide the victims with a measure of closure as they attempt to move forward from the horrific experiences.