An 18-year-old man from Mildenhall, Suffolk, has been sentenced to six years in prison for raping a 12-year-old girl from Wiltshire that he met on social media. Dennis Rocha, who initiated the conversation with the victim despite knowing she was underage, turned the conversation sexual. He then arranged to meet her in Wiltshire, where he raped her.
The victim’s mother was alerted to the incident after her daughter confided in her, and she immediately reported it to the authorities. Rocha was subsequently arrested, charged, and taken into custody. Today, he pleaded guilty to two counts of raping a child under the age of 13, resulting in a sentence of six years and eight months at Swindon Crown Court.
In addition to imprisonment, Rocha has been given a one-year extension period on his license. He also faces an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and will have to sign the sex offenders’ register upon release. These measures aim to protect the public and deter him from committing similar offenses in the future.
DC Amanda Lord, the investigating officer from the Child Abuse Investigation Team, emphasized the severity of such crimes and the commitment of law enforcement in safeguarding children. She commended the victim for her bravery in coming forward and speaking out against her attacker.
If you have been a victim of child abuse or a sexual offense, it is essential to report it to the authorities. Victims can contact Wiltshire Police at any time, even in an emergency, by calling 101 or 999. Support and counseling can also be obtained from the Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), which has a helpline at 01793 781916.
FAQ
Q: What were the charges against Dennis Rocha?
A: Dennis Rocha pleaded guilty to two counts of raping a child under the age of 13.
Q: What was Dennis Rocha’s sentence?
A: Dennis Rocha was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison.
Q: What additional measures were imposed on Dennis Rocha?
A: In addition to his prison sentence, Dennis Rocha received a one-year license extension, an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, and will have to sign the sex offenders’ register upon release.
Q: Who should victims of child abuse or sexual offenses contact for assistance?
A: Victims can reach out to Wiltshire Police by dialing 101 or 999 in an emergency. The Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) also offers support and counseling and can be contacted on the helpline 01793 781916.