Man who raped children jailed for 11 years

A man who raped two children and committed a string of other offences has been jailed for 11 years.

William Clay, 20, formerly of Grantham, was sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court, sitting at Lincoln Magistrates' Court, on Friday.

The defendant had denied raping one of the victims but was found guilty by a jury after a nine-day trial in August.

Clay previously admitted three further rape offences, intentional strangulation and two counts of actual bodily harm against a second victim.

The offences took place in Lincolnshire between 2024 and 2026.

Clay, who also admitted possessing indecent images, was given a 16-year sentence, comprising 11 years in prison and five years on licence.

He was also made the subject of a 16-year sexual harm prevention order, placed on the sex offenders register and handed a lifetime restraining order.

Both victims were under 16 when the abuse began, Lincolnshire Police said.

Det Con Karolina Pelka said their bravery helped bring Clay to justice.

She said: "Their bravery through what has undoubtedly been a difficult process is recognised and greatly appreciated.

"Without them, Clay would still be on the streets."

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