First conviction for Operation Daybreak probe into Notts child abuse
The first person to be convicted as part of Operation Daybreak has been sent to prison for crimes including the rape of a child in Nottinghamshire in the 1980s.
Ivor John Bethel, 62, also admitted indecency charges after being arrested by officers probing claims of historic abuse dating back decades.
Bethel of Barnhill Road, Wembley, London, was handed a 15-year prison sentence at Nottingham Crown Court today.
Operation Daybreak is one of two ongoing investigations into physical or sexual abuse crimes dating as far back as the 1930s, and has more than 100 alleged victims.
Many of the claims relate to alleged abuse in former council-run care homes, but Bethel’s crimes were not related to the care system.
Detectives came across a series of attacks committed by him as part of the operation.
Detective Inspector Rob McKinnell, of Notts Police said Bether was “extremely dangerous” and revealed he has previous convictions for serious sexual offences against children, including a previous ten-year sentence for a rape in the south of England in 2003.
We hope this sentence will encourage others to come forward
Det Insp McKinnell said: “What cannot be overstated is the courage of his victim to disclose what happened to her more than 30 years ago to the investigation team, who have supported her through this traumatic journey where she has shown absolute strength and resilience throughout to ensure justice for her would be achieved.
“It has had and continues to have a considerable impact on her life and her ability and willingness to trust other adults.
“We hope that this sentence will encourage others to come forward to the police.”
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