Delay in rape case (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Delay in rape case

A TEENAGER who could face a lifetime behind bars after raping a 12-year-old girl has had his sentencing delayed after a mix-up with a report.

Benjamin Burton, 18, of Greenland View, Bradford on Avon, appeared at Swindon Crown Court on Friday for sentencing after pleading guilty to rape in June.

Under new legislation the maximum penalty of life imprisonment can be applied if a person who has committed a serious sexual offence is considered a substantial risk to the public.

The probation service had prepared a report on whether Burton did pose such a risk but halfway through defender Stephen Mooney's address it became apparent there was a section of the report covering this issue which he had not seen. Mr Mooney said he could not continue. He said: "It seems I am driven to apply for more time as this cannot be unchallenged on the part of defendant.

"I also need to be in a position to place alternative views and I would ask for a psychologist's report and for a forensic psychiatric report."

The court had earlier heard how Burton had sex with the 12-year-old girl, who he had known for some time, in a barn after sending her explicit text messages.

The girl later reported the incident to teachers, who told the police.

Judge Tom Longbotham accepted it was important the defence had enough time to read the report properly, and adjourned the case for eight weeks.