A HOYLAND paedophile has been found guilty of raping a 15-year-old girl.
Paul Blackshaw, 43, of Oak Close, was found guilty by a unanimous jury verdict at Sheffield Crown Court last Thursday.
The jury heard how on September 18, 2021, Blackshaw followed the young girl on Wentworth Road in Hoyland as she walked home alone from an evening out with friends.
He then raped the girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, in a nearby field before leaving her there alone.
A police investigation was immediately launched and following extensive work by the Barnsley CID team, Blackshaw was identified, arrested and interviewed.
During Blackshaw’s interview process, he denied raping the girl and had no reasonable rationale for how his DNA had got onto the girl’s clothing.
He was charged with rape of a female under 16, and remanded into custody.
Investigating officer DC Courtney Moorby said: “The bravery and testimony of this young victim is to be applauded and my thoughts remain with her as she attempts to rebuild her life following his incident.
“I am pleased the jury found Blackshaw guilty of his actions and he now faces sentencing.
“I hope this sends a clear message that those who prey on the vulnerabilities of others are shameful and their behaviour will not be tolerated.”
He will appear for sentencing at Sheffield Crown Court on October 6.
