Bailey Harding, 21, of Bookham, was jailed for four years and six months at Chichester Crown Court on Friday (September 25) after being convicted of a campaign of abuse against a 14-year-old girl. The offending spanned 18 months, beginning when Harding was 17, and included rape, strangulation, and threats with a knife.
Abuse and Control
Harding used his age and physical strength to control the victim, who knew him. The abuse included rape, sexual assault, strangulation, and threats at knifepoint. The victim, now an adult, said she still fears encountering Harding in public and regularly changes her appearance in case he recognises her.
“I often feel as if I can see him in big crowds or in dark places,” she said. She described how she once saw Harding as her protector before realising the reality of their relationship. “I felt he was my saviour but ultimately he was my tormentor,” she said. “I haven’t slept peacefully in two and half years.”
Conviction and Sentencing
Harding was convicted following a trial in July of rape, three counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15, intentional strangulation, threatening a person with an offensive weapon in a private place, and controlling and coercive behaviour. The victim contacted police in January 2024 and disclosed the abuse.
Harding was arrested, and two large zombie-style knives were found and seized during a search of his room. He denied the allegations in interview, claiming the victim was making malicious allegations against him. He was also given a seven-year restraining order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Victim’s Courage and Police Response
Investigating officer DC Helen Cridge praised the victim for her courage in coming forward while she was still a child. She said: “I would like to recognise the victim’s remarkable courage in coming forward while she was still an extremely vulnerable child. Her strength and determination have been inspiring, and her actions have played a vital role in securing this result. I hope her bravery gives others experiencing abuse the confidence to come forward, knowing that they will be listened to and that they are not alone.”
The victim urged others experiencing abuse not to let their abusers silence them. She said: “I know how hard it can be to speak about something that has happened to you, especially when that person has made you feel like you should stay quiet. But please don’t be afraid to speak out. Don’t let anyone make you feel like your voice doesn’t matter, and don’t let anyone take it away from you.”
