A CHILD rapist who forced a girl to engage in a sexual act as “their little secret” has been jailed for more than 13 years.

Mark Smith, 30, has been sentenced to 13 years and 6 months after admitting rape and assault by penetration.

He must serve an extended licence period of one year.

The man had forced a girl to engage in a sexual act at an address on Canvey on June 4, 2016.

The victim reported to Essex Police that he had threatened her to make her go through with it and told her that it was their “little secret”.

She said she felt to embarrassed and scared to tell anyone what happened and was left feeling it was her fault.

As a result of the assault, the victim experienced significant struggles with her mental health to the point that she needed professional help.

It was at that point, in August 2019, that the offences were disclosed to Essex Police.

Smith, of Florian Avenue, Sutton, was arrested following month and when initially interviewed denied remembering the incident stating he couldn’t recall if he was at the address on that day.

He was later charged with rape and assault by penetration and admitted the offences at Basildon Crown Court on March 30, 2022.

He was also sentenced for a separate count of causing a child to engage in sexual activity without consent.

This offence was committed by Smith while on court bail, in January 2022.

Det Con, Victoria Leese, the investigating officer from the child abuse investigating team, said: “I want to praise the courage shown by the victim in this case, who went through an awful ordeal which has had a long-lasting impact.

“No-one should experience what she has, and she has shown incredibly bravery in telling us what happened.

“Mark Smith threatened her and forced her to take part in a sexual act. His actions are despicable, and I am please he has now been held accountable for them.

“I hope this result will help the victim move forward.

“I would also pay tribute to the family of the victims, whose bravery and trust in the police and throughout this process has been steadfast.”

For more information about how to get support, visit synergyessex.org.uk