A Weymouth child rapist has been jailed for eight years after being found guilty of four offences against a young boy.

Russell Mason, aged 32, of Louviers Road, was sentenced by Judge Susan Evans KC on Friday, March 31 at Bournemouth Crown Court. 

Mason's sentencing was previously adjourned after the Crown Prosecution Service failed to upload vital documents.

The Weymouth man has been jailed for a number of child sex offences - including the rape of a boy aged under 13.

Jurors had found Mason guilty of four offences - raping a boy, sexual assault by touching, inciting a boy to perform non-penetrative sexual activity, and inciting a boy to watch or look at an image of sexual activity - following a trial in January 2023.

However the sentencing - originally scheduled to take place on March 20 - was delayed after the CPS failed to upload an application for a sexual harm prevention order, as well as victim impact statement from the boy that Mason raped.

It had already been pushed back once before this from March 9. 

The offences took place over a six year period in Weymouth and involved a boy between the age of 8 and 14.

In a statement, UK children's charity the NSPCC called Mason's offences 'horrific'. 

“Russell Mason committed horrific offences against a young boy. Sexual abuse can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on young people and their families, and we hope that they are receiving all the support that they need," it said. 

“It is so important that those who have experienced abuse are empowered to speak out and seek support.

"Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 and adults with concerns about a child can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk."