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Rolf-Harris-verdict-main_article_image.jpg
Photo: REX
UK News

CCPAS 'pleased' with Rolf Harris prison sentence

One was just seven or eight when he groped her when she asked for his autograph.

Another victim claimed he had a hold over her that made her "a quivering wreck". 

Speaking outside the court, a representative of one of his victims read a statement suggesting Harris' actions would have a lasting impact on her life, she said: "My sister has had only eight years of her life without this incident going round in her head, and that was her first either. After these cameras have been dismantled it will be still with her; as it will be for the other girls."
On sentencing the veteran artist, the judge at Southark Crown Court told the shamed entertainer his reputation was now in ruins and he'd shown no remorse.
Mr Justice Sweeney said: "You took advantage of the trust placed in you because of your celebrity status to commit the offences."
However, Rolf Harris' sentence has already been referred to the Attorney General under the unduly lenient sentence scheme.

But chief executive of the Churches' Child Protection Advisory Service, Simon Bass told Premier's Des Busteed on News Hour that he was satisfied with the outcome of the case:

The NSPCC has described Rolf Harris' targeting of young girls and women as "brazen" and "opportunistic."

Peter Watt, director of National Services at the NSPCC said: "He took advantage of their trust in him and we heard through the evidence of his courageous victims just how profoundly damaging his abuse was on them for decades after. 
"This sentence reflects the seriousness of his crimes and hopefully those he preyed upon can finally find some peace. It sends a message that no one is untouchable and justice can come at any time. 
"Harris has not shown any remorse for what he has done and treated the whole court case like just another performance. Thankfully the jury saw through this charade and he will now have a considerable amount of time to reflect on the impact of his crimes."
Prosecutors say they will not pursue charges over allegations the 84 year old downloaded indecent images of children.

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