Brandon Foss (20) from Hythe sentenced to 20 months in prison for child sex offences as police praise victim’s bravery

POLICE have praised the courage of an underage sexual assault victim following the sentencing of a “dangerous” Hythe man.

Brandon Foss (20) of Butts Ash Gardens, was recently jailed for 20 months after admitting seven counts of sexual activity with a child, which he committed between May and June last year.

Southampton Crown Court heard the victim was under 16 years of age.

PC Robert Thomas, who led the investigation, said: “It took a lot of courage and bravery for the victim to come forward and make these disclosures to us.

“I have nothing but the greatest admiration for this young lady, who fully supported our investigation and remained confident in our ability to get a conviction in court.

“I am so pleased for her that justice has now been served in this case, and that she has now seen Foss put behind bars, where he belongs.”

He added: “He abused her for his own sexual gratification, and must now serve time in prison, where he will have to reflect upon his crimes.

“While I know this result won’t rid the victim of the memories of what he did to her, I truly hope it allows her to move forward with her life, safe in the knowledge that he can no longer harm anyone else.”

Foss also pleaded guilty to one count of possessing class B drug, cannabis.

Judge Nicholas Rowland imposed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, which places restrictions on Foss to prevent further offending.

He was also ordered to pay £167 in court charges.

PC Thomas told the A&T he hoped the sentence would reassure other victims of similar incidents that they will be listened to.

“We encourage other victims to come forward and speak to us,” he said. “We take allegations of this nature extremely seriously and work hard to bring offenders to justice.

“This should also be a very clear message to other offenders out there that we will always work tirelessly to ensure you are brought to justice.

“This was a real team effort which has resulted in a dangerous individual being sent to prison.”

Anyone who has any concerns about child abuse should contact police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who has experienced abuse in childhood, or is concerned about a child, can contact the NSPCC helpline confidentially on 0808 800 5000.

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.