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A UK Cypriot man who groomed and sexually abused a young girl has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
John Angeli, 60, of Steeplestone Close, London, was found guilty of 12 charges, including rape and sexual assault of a child under 13, following a trial at Luton Crown Court in December. He had also pleaded guilty to four counts of rape, voyeurism, and possession of indecent images of a child.
Angeli systematically groomed the victim, giving her gifts and taking her on outings to manipulate her into believing they were in a relationship. He then subjected her to repeated sexual abuse, filming some of the assaults.
Judge Allison Hunter described Angeli's actions as a "calculated and deliberate" grooming process, stating that he had "persuaded her that this inappropriate relationship was normal for her age."
Angeli was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 14 years. He will also be subject to a life-long sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order.
Detective Constable Bryony Ballin of Bedfordshire Police emphasized the devastating impact of child sexual abuse and urged anyone who has been a victim or has concerns about a child to come forward.
With information from Bedfordshire, UK Police Department.
