Two Men Jailed for Life After Horrific Abuse of Baby

Two men have been jailed for life after a series of horrific offences involving the rape and sexual exploitation of a baby last summer.

Ethan Towers, 27, from St Ives, Cambridgeshire, and John Watson, 28, from Westcliff‑on‑Sea, Essex, were both described by a judge as “dangerous and a risk to the public” as they were sentenced at Cambridge Crown Court.

Towers carried out repeated assaults on the infant while Watson encouraged the abuse. The judge said the “extreme youth” of the victim made the crimes particularly grave.

Towers must serve a minimum of 12 years and five months, while Watson must serve 13 years and four months before they can be considered for release.

Indecent images and previous offending

The court heard that Towers had sent indecent images of children to Watson. Watson — already subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for previous offences — had also exchanged explicit images with another child under 16.

Towers admitted five counts of rape, while Watson pleaded guilty to causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, as well as multiple offences involving indecent images and sexual communication with a child.

Both men were also issued with restraining orders and ordered to pay a £228 victim surcharge.

Victim statements read in court

A statement from the baby’s mother described how the ordeal had left her feeling “isolated and fearful”. Another statement from a child contacted online by both men said they felt “set free” following the convictions.

Judge Mark Bishop said he was “satisfied” that both men posed a continuing danger to the public.

Cambridgeshire Police confirmed the case has been referred to safeguarding authorities.

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