Skipton man jailed for 27 years for raping two women and a girl
71-year-old Charles Pratt was found guilty of 19 charges
A detective has praised the “immense bravery” of three rape victims after their attacker was jailed for 27 years.
Charles David Pratt (pictured), aged 71, of Keighley Road, Skipton, was found guilty of the 19 charges on Monday (5 August 2024) following a trial at Bradford Crown Court.
The charges included multiple counts of rape, buggery and one count of attempted indecent assault on a girl aged under 16.
At the sentencing on Thursday (8 August), Pratt was handed an extra 12-month licence period and he was placed on the register of sex offenders for the rest of his life.
The identities of the victims are protected by law.
Detective Constable Neil Borchardt, from North Yorkshire Police, led the investigation.
He said: “The offences carried out by Pratt over a series of decades are truly harrowing. He used violence and threats, often while under the influence of alcohol, to carry out these attacks for his own disturbed sexual gratification.
“He adversely affected the lives of his victims who have had to endure extreme levels of trauma.
“They have shown immense bravery in coming forward to the police to seek justice against Pratt.
“Thankfully, they have received the professional care and support that is readily available to all victims of sexual offences.
“This case demonstrates once again that it is never too late to make a report to the police or to get help.
“Please do not suffer in silence. We are here for you.”
You can make a report via the police website or call 101, option 4, and speak to the Force Control Room.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, always dial 999 for an emergency response.
Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111 or at childline.org.uk
Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Victims who would prefer not to go direct to the police and are not in immediate danger, can contact Bridge House, North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), on 0330 223 0362, email bridgehouse.sarc@nhs.net or go to www.bridgehousesarc.org/
You can also contact the Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at www.supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.