Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 11th April 2025 at 14:55hrs
A 39-year-old man from Ripon has been sentenced to 18 years in prison today after being found guilty of multiple serious child sex offences.
James Laing, of Ripon, was convicted of two counts of raping a child under the age of 13, seven counts of sexual assault against a child, and three counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
Laing had denied all the charges throughout the investigation, forcing his young victims to endure the trauma of giving evidence against him in court following a trial in March 2025.
Despite this, Laing himself did not take the stand to face cross-examination.
He was sentenced at York Crown Court today, Friday, April 11, where in addition to the lengthy prison term, he was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life. Furthermore, Laing was issued with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order.
Police Staff Investigator Lorraine Whipp, of Harrogate Safeguarding Investigation Team, who led the investigation, condemned Laing’s actions.
“Laing has taken away the childhood of his victims, abusing them in the worst way possible,” she said.
PSI Whipp praised the bravery of the young victims, stating, “The children have been incredibly brave reporting what happened to them. They found the court process extremely difficult, and it will, no doubt, have a lasting impact on them.”
She shared the profound impact of Laing’s crimes on the children, relaying their words: “In their own words, he has ruined their life, and although they are glad they are now safe and no-one can hurt them, it has also affected their trust in men.”
PSI Whipp expressed her hope for the victims’ future, saying, “I sincerely hope that the children can put this horrendous abuse and the experience behind them with the help of the agencies who are supporting them and live happy lives knowing that their abuser can no longer harm them.”
She also emphasized the importance of other victims coming forward, stating, “I also hope that this outcome encourages other victims of abuse to come forward and know that they will be believed, listened to and supported throughout the Police and court process.”
North Yorkshire Police are urging anyone who wishes to report rape or sexual abuse, no matter how long ago it happened, to come forward.
Reports can be made via their website or by calling 101 and speaking to the Force Control Room. In immediate danger, individuals should always dial 999.
Support is also available from various agencies:
* IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services): Supports victims of sexual violence and abuse regardless of reporting to the police. Sexual Violence Help and Advice
* NSPCC Helpline: For anyone concerned about a child, call 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
* Childline: Available for young people on 0800 1111
* North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) – Acer House: For those who prefer not to go directly to the police and are not in immediate danger, call 0330 223 0362 or visit http://acerhousesarc.co.uk.
* Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire: Contact at http://supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.
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