Jailed for life after child rapes

A man who pleaded guilty to 18 sexual offences against children has been jailed for life. Darren Mackrell, 45, of Wilton Avenue, Southampton was sentenced to an indeterminate term of imprisonment for public protection at Winchester Crown Court. He committed the crimes on 21 April 2012.

These offences included the rape and sexual assault of three children, causing them to engage in sexual activity, forcing them to watch a sexual act and take drugs.

Fiona Rutherford, Head of CPS Wessex Crown Advocacy Unit said it had been a horrific case where three young children, aged 10, nine and eight were raped by a 46-year-old man.

She added: “I would like to thank these young victims who showed great courage by giving their statements to the police. Without them we would not have been able to build a strong case against Mackrell, which eventually led to his guilty pleas.Our thoughts remain with them and their families.”