A man who raped two children and committed a string of other offences has been jailed for 11 years.
William Clay, formerly of Grantham, appeared at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 September for sentencing after he was convicted following an earlier nine-day trial.
The 20-year-old denied the rape of one victim but was found guilty by a jury and pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, one of intentional strangulation and two of ABH on his second victim.
The offences took place in Lincolnshire between 2024 and 2026, with both victims being under the age of 16 when the abuse began.
Clay also pleaded guilty to possession of indecent images and extreme pornography.
He was sentenced to 16 years – 11 in jail, five on licence – handed a sexual harm prevention order for 16 years, added to the sex register and given a restraining order for life.
Detective Constable Karolina Pelka, of Lincolnshire Police, praised the victims at the heart of the investigation and thanked those who helped bring Clay to justice.
She said: “Both victims showed real resilience and bravery throughout a long trial.
“We commend both victims for their courage and strength in coming forward and supporting this investigation.
“Their bravery through what has undoubtedly been a difficult process is recognised and greatly appreciated. Without them, Clay would still be on the streets.”
She added: “This was a joint investigation between PVP and CID which brought the results of getting suspect remanded and charged all the way to the trial process.
“I would like to thank the officers involved for their professionalism, dedication and commitment.
“Their thorough and diligent work has played an important role in bringing this case to the conclusion.”
Anyone who has been the victim of rape or sexual assault or any other sexual offence is asked to report it to Lincolnshire Police as soon as possible.
Even if they are not 100 per cent sure, police want to hear from them so they can make sure they are safe.
If someone is not ready to talk to the police just yet, that’s OK. They can follow this link to find out what other organisations can help and support them: https://www.lincs.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/
Rape and sexual assault can be reported here: https://www.lincs.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/how-to-report-rape-and-sexual-assault/
Lincolnshire Police said the case demonstrates the crucial work its PVP teams perform in helping those in local communities who need support.
As part of the force’s Lincs 2030 transformation project, it will be bolstering the department so it can go even further and bring more offenders to justice.
Officers interested in transferring can find further information on the Lincolnshire Police careers website: https://www.lincs.police.uk/police-forces/lincolnshire-police/areas/careers/join-us/transferee-police-officers/
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