Man Jailed for Eight Years for Sexually Abusing Child in Southampton

A 59-year-old man has been jailed for eight years after sexually abusing a girl – who was under the age of 13 – in Southampton.

Juan Francisco De La Cruz, of Robert Keen Close, Southwark, London, was convicted at Winchester Crown Court of two counts of assault by touching and one count of assault of a girl by penetration. The offences occurred at a property in Southampton on multiple occasions in 2022.

At the hearing on Thursday, 5 February, De La Cruz was sentenced to eight years in prison. He was also issued an indefinite restraining order and a sexual harm prevention order.

DC Katharine Mumford, from the Child Abuse Investigation Team, who led the investigation, described De La Cruz as “a depraved and predatory offender who targeted a vulnerable child.”

“No sentence can erase the impact of his actions, but I hope today’s result offers the victim and their family some sense of justice,” she said.

She also praised the young victim for their courage: “I want to recognise the immense bravery shown by the young victim in coming forward and speaking about what happened. Their courage has been central to securing this conviction.”

DC Mumford highlighted the work of the police team in supporting victims: “Our team is dedicated to protecting children, pursuing offenders, and supporting families through what is often an incredibly painful process. We will always work tirelessly to ensure those who commit these appalling offences and harm children are brought before the courts.”

Authorities are encouraging anyone with concerns about child abuse to contact police on 101, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Support services are available for survivors of sexual abuse, whether or not they choose to report the crime. For more information, visit the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website.