THIS IS the police custody shot of paedophile reptile sanctuary owner Andrew Browne.
The 53-year-old was jailed for six years on Friday for seducing a vulnerable 15-year-old girl who came to Swindon Reptile Rescue for work experience in 2012.
He groomed the girl and was intimate with her on six occasions before she turned 16 – with the relationship continuing for a further three years.
Read more: Jail for Swindon reptile sanctuary founder who groomed teen
Reacting to the sentence a spokesman for the NSPCC in the south west said: “Browne’s abhorrent behaviour saw him repeatedly abuse and exploit a vulnerable girl for this own sexual gratification.
“His actions have had a hugely detrimental effect on the welfare of his victim, who was subjected to horrific abuse on a number of occasions.
“Many of the images in the catalogue he amassed will also be crime scenes, with young victims of sickening abuse.
“It’s important that anyone who suffers child sexual abuse has confidence to come forward, no matter how much time has passed, and we hope the young girl in this case is receiving all appropriate support.”
Andrew Browne Picture: WILTSHIRE POLICE
Swindon Crown Court heard the abuse had left a lasting impact on his victim, who had suffered from poor mental health before she went to volunteer with Browne.
Sentencing the pervert on Friday, Judge Jason Taylor QC said: “You were the adult. You had a responsibility to protect her from herself when she was at her lowest ebb. Instead you chose to abuse the trust she placed in you as a father figure.
“You kept this secret over three to four years and that must have involved significant planning and manipulation. You groomed her. You recorded and retained images.”
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