A SOUTHAMPTON man raped and sexually abused a young girl, a court heard.
Phomnarin Harawan, 20, pinned his victim down during the attacks, Southampton Crown Court was told.
Prosecution barrister Nick Tucker said the defendant promised her money not to report the abuse.
The girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, reportedly tried to kick out at Harawan, 20, of Portchester Road, when he launched his sexual attacks.
He was arrested in January last year and during a police interview told officers he assumed his victim was “fine” with what happened.
Harawan denied having any sexual gratification from the offences and claimed it was a way of expressing the anger he felt about various aspects of his life.
He was charged with rape, assault by penetration and two counts of attempted rape.
Harawan, who had no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to all offences.
Defending, barrister, Gemma White, told the court that her client had admitted to his crimes and should be given appropriate credit in his sentence.
She added there had been a delay of 18 months for the case to be dealt with.
Ms White also said Harawan’s early days at school had been difficult, with the experience impacting his social development.
The court recorder, Adam Feest QC, said that Harawan’s victim had shown remarkable courage and strength of character.
Harawan was jailed for eight years. He will serve at least two-thirds of this sentence and will be on licence when he is released.
He has been made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order until a further order is made.
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