A MAN convicted of sexually assaulting his special needs stepdaughter in 2018 must serve 10 years of his 12-year jail term before being considered for parole.

The victim, who has intellectual impairment,  was 17 at the time.

“Rape is one of the most humiliating and distressing crimes,” Justice Thushara Rajasinghe said  in his sentencing.

“It becomes more serious when involved with a young person in her domestic environment. Hence, I find that rape of this nature is a grave crime.

“Given the serious nature and the prevalence of crimes of this nature, the primary purpose of this sentence is founded on the principle of deterrence.”

Justice Rajasinghe said it was the responsibility of the court to deter offenders or other persons from committing offences of the same or similar nature and protect the community from offenders of this nature.

“A harsh and long custodial sentence is inevitable for offences of this nature to demonstrate the gravity of the offence and reflect that society denounces such crimes without any reservation,” the judge said.

“There is no evidence or information before this Court to consider your general reputation in society and also any significant contribution you have made to the community.

“Considering these reasons, you are not entitled to a discount on your previous character.”