Man jailed for Bracknell sex offences

A man has been jailed for a series of serious sexual offences in Bracknell.

58-year-old Derek Harcourt, formerly of Wokingham Road , was sentenced to 11 and a half years.

Hi sentence will not begin until January 2026 as he is already serving another sentence.

He admitted two counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and further counts of assault, attempted assault and voyeurism.

Between 2019 and 2020, Harcourt repeatedly abused a woman, recording much of the abuse on his mobile phone.

He was arrested on 28 July 2020, re-arrested on 24 January 2023 and charged via postal requisition on 12 June 2023.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Matt O’Riordan said: “I would like to pay tribute to the victim in this case for the strength, courage and patience she has shown during this investigation.

“She has remained incredibly dignified throughout, having initially shown such bravery to speak up about Harcourt.

“The judge rightly praised her victim personal statement as particularly powerful.

“Harcourt exploited the trust the victim had in him to enable his offending, and I am pleased that he is now in prison where he belongs.

“Harcourt told the victim no one would listen to her if she reported his offending.

“However, tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Thames Valley Police, and if you are the victim of a crime like this you will be heard. We have specially trained officers ready to listen.”

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