A beast who sexually abused an underage girl in County Durham has been jailed for 13 years.
Antony McNamara groomed and raped the victim and was branded a “child molester” by a judge. The 46-year-old monster left the vulnerable victim feeling “haunted” by his abuse as well as battling suicidal thoughts.
McNamara appeared at Durham Crown Court via link from HMP Durham to be sentenced for four counts of rape, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, assault by penetration and sexual activity with a child. He had pleaded guilty to the offences.
Stephen Littlewood, prosecuting, told the court that during the abuse the girl would feel “numb” and “empty”. McNamara also told the victim he would be “locked up” if she ever told anyone what was happening.
McNamara was arrested and denied the offences. However, he pleaded guilty to the serious crimes on the day his trial was due to begin.
In a statement, the victim said McNamara subjected her to “emotional, physical and sexual abuse”. She added she feels “haunted” by McNamara and contemplated suicide and lost all confidence.
Caroline McGurk, defending, said McNamara had no previous convictions and “feels remorse for his offending behaviour”. She said: “He describes his behaviour as terrible and disgusting and is angry with himself. He acknowledges he was at fault.”
She added: “He knows his behaviour has caused mental anguish and he felt suicidal when remanded into custody.” The court heard that McNamara was working towards an Open University degree in Ancient History behind bars.
Sentencing McNamara, Recorder Dafydd Enoch KC branded him a “child molester” and said the abuse “culminated in the rape” of the victim.
McNamara, of Manor Park, East London, was jailed for 13 years and put on the sex offenders register for life. A lifelong sexual harm prevention order was also imposed, alongside an indefinite restraining order.
If this piece has affected you and you want to talk to someone, there are helplines and support groups available, many of them 24/7.
The NHS Choices website lists the following helplines and support networks for people to talk to.
- Samaritans (116 123 in UK and Ireland) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
- Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.
- PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
- Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity based in England providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
- Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts.
- Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying.
- If U Care Share is a suicide prevention and postvention support charity. For free confidential text support text IUCS to 85258.
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James’ Place provide free, life-saving treatment for suicidal men, and those identifying as male, in the North East. Men can refer themselves or be referred by a professional including those working in health and community services, or by a friend or family member.