A dangerous predator, Pascal Bitton, 35, from Weston-super-Mare, has been sentenced to over ten years in prison for the rape and sexual abuse of teenage girls. On June 11, at North Somerset Court, Bitton was found guilty of multiple serious offenses including rape, sexual assault, inciting minors to engage in sexual activities, offering and supplying class A drugs, involvement in cannabis supply, and possession of an offensive weapon.
The case followed a lengthy investigation into child sexual exploitation, spanning several years, during which Avon and Somerset Police maintained close contact with the victims. Bitton targeted vulnerable teenage girls by offering them lifts in his vehicle, supplying alcohol and drugs, and then perpetrating sexual abuse when they were isolated and intoxicated.
Det Sgt Olly Stokes of Avon and Somerset Police’s Child Sexual Exploitation Team (Topaz) emphasized the importance of this conviction in protecting children from further harm. He praised the courage of the victims who supported the case, ensuring a dangerous individual was removed from the community. Stokes reiterated the police commitment to thoroughly investigate all sexual offense reports, regardless of when they occurred, assuring victims they will be heard and supported.
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One victim expressed her gratitude to the police, highlighting the exceptional communication and empathy they provided throughout the process, which helped her feel safe and valued.
Support remains available for victims of sexual assault, whether recent or historic. The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre, offers 24/7 support and can be contacted at 0117 342 6999. Additional victim support organizations are listed at www.thisisnotanexcuse.org. For those who feel unsafe in public spaces, the StreetSafe reporting tool on the police.uk website helps authorities protect women and girls by addressing areas of concern.