A 25-year-old man from Halifax, Alex Honour, has been sentenced to 10 and a half years in prison after being found guilty of multiple sexual offences against nine children. Honour, residing on Lentilfield Street in Ovenden, was convicted of crimes including rape of a child, sexual activity with a child, and incitement of a child into sexual activity. The offences occurred between 2014 and 2019, with all victims under the age of 18 at the time.
The case came to light in 2019 when one victim reported the offences to the police, prompting an investigation by the Calderdale Child Vulnerability Exploitation Team. Through their diligent work, investigators connected this report to a previous offence reported in 2017, identifying Honour as the suspect in both instances. As the investigation progressed, detectives discovered additional victims who disclosed further offences committed by Honour. In total, nine victims were identified.
Alex Honour was arrested in October 2020 and subsequently charged with a total of 35 offences in April 2022. While admitting to some of the offences, he was found guilty of 29 offences in total after a 13-day trial at Bradford Crown Court in August.
On Friday, Honour appeared for sentencing and was handed a prison term of 10 and a half years, along with a four-year extended licence period. In addition, he received an indefinite restraining order, prohibiting him from contacting the victims, and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order was imposed.
DC Jason Raine of Calderdale District Police, the investigating officer, commended the bravery of the young girls who came forward and disclosed Honour’s offences. He praised their courage and dignity throughout the daunting experience of a criminal trial. DC Raine also emphasised the importance of encouraging anyone who may have been a victim of any sexual offence, whether recent or non-recent, to come forward and speak to the police. Specially trained officers will listen and provide support, ensuring victims are referred to further help if needed.
Detective Inspector Clare Turner of Calderdale District Police acknowledged the dedication and tenacity of DC Raine throughout the investigation. His efforts were recognised in court when Judge Rose commended the standard of his investigation. The goal was to seek justice for the young girls, and DC Raine’s unwavering commitment played a crucial role in bringing the case forward to the CPS.
