Child rapist jailed for 27 years

Marc Bear, 38, will be risk to children for life

A rapist is starting 27 years in prison after being found guilty of a string of serious sexual offences against children and then absconding as he awaited sentence.

Marc Bear, 38, and from Launceston, was also given a year on extended licence, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and will sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Following a trial last month, Bear was found guilty of 16 offences against children, including 10 counts of rape, two sexual assaults, two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of casing a person to engage in sexual activity.

The jury also found Bear not guilty of two offences of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, one count of rape and one count of sexual assault.

After he was convicted, the judge granted him bail so he could prepare for a custodial sentence, but he absconded and was located the following day in Somerset.

At Truro Crown Court on Thursday, Judge Carr told him that he would be a risk to children for the rest of his life and that it was clear he had planned to abscond, saying: “that told me everything I need to know about your character”.

Investigating officer, detective constable Tim Barbery from the public protection unit said: “This was a highly disturbing case where the offender has exploited the vulnerability of young people for his own sexual gratification, and I welcome the sentence handed down by the judge.

“This has been a protracted investigation due to the nature of the offences and the strength and bravery shown by the victims in support of the police case has been crucial.

“I hope the outcome given today provides them with a small element of closure so that they can begin to move forward.”