A man from Staffordshire has been sentenced to more than 14 years behind bars for a series of horrific sexual offences against a girl under the age of 16.
Investigation and Charges
Henry Saklatvala, aged 38 and from Newcastle-under-Lyme, was investigated by Staffordshire Police after his victim came forward in July last year. The survivor bravely disclosed that she had been sexually abused.
Officers from the force's child protection team launched a detailed investigation, supporting the girl to gather the evidence required to bring charges. Saklatvala was subsequently charged with multiple serious offences.
Details of the Offences
The charges he faced included two counts of rape of a girl, two counts of sexual assault on a girl, and one count of attempted rape. One of the sexual assault charges specified assault "by penetration with part of body/a thing".
At an earlier hearing, Saklatvala admitted to all the offences, leading to his sentencing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
Court Sentencing and Orders
On Thursday, January 8, 2026, Saklatvala was jailed for 14 years and three months. In addition to his prison term, the judge imposed significant lifelong restrictions.
He was given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and an indefinite restraining order to protect the survivor. These orders are designed to manage risk and prevent further harm indefinitely.
Police Praise Survivor's Courage
Detective Constable Mylene Bepole, of Staffordshire Police's child protection team, commended the victim's strength. "I’m pleased that we’ve been able to deliver this outcome for the survivor in this case, who has shown immeasurable bravery in coming forward," she said.
A police spokesperson added: "Because of the survivor’s bravery, and the strength of our investigation, Saklatvala admitted the offences... and is now behind bars for a long time."
A Message to Other Survivors
Staffordshire Police have used this case to urge other survivors of sexual violence to come forward, regardless of when the offences occurred. "No matter how recent or long ago offences may have been, we want to deliver these types of outcomes for survivors across Staffordshire," DC Bepole stated.
The force emphasised that specialist officers are available to speak to in confidence. Survivors are encouraged to call 101 or use the Live Chat function on the Staffordshire Police website. "We are determined to seek the toughest possible punishment in court for perpetrators of sexual violence," the spokesperson concluded.
