A SICK paedophile first reported to police more than a decade ago is still at large because the authorities have continually failed to act, the Gazette can reveal.

The twisted abuser, who preyed on his young step-daughter, is still walking the streets freely because Hampshire Constabulary have never arrested him - despite his victim first reporting him in 2003.

The brave youngster told Basingstoke police about how her step-father had been sexually assaulting her throughout her childhood but they chose not to act.

The woman, who is 33, plucked up the courage to report him again in 2018 but learnt officers had lost vital evidence, including her original report.

And now she has been dealt a further blow after learning the case against him has been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic - the officer in charge is “self-isolating”.

Hampshire Constabulary said it cannot comment on an ongoing investigation.

The situation has left the victim in turmoil as this year marks 17 years since she first reported her abuser.

Read more in this week's paper.

Also inside:

  • Couples from Basingstoke have spoken out after having to cancel their weddings due to coronavirus. A groom from Bramley, Adam Comer, 23, was planning the big day with partner Claire Piper, 23, a customer assistant at Lloyds bank for three years. Read more on page 2.
  • Residents are “dismayed and angry” over the council’s decision to collect bins every fortnight according to councillors, who are concerned about the changes during the Covid-19 lockdown. Read more on page 4.
  • Five executives from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council are among the top paid council executives in the country, costing the council almost £500,000. Read more on page 5.
  • The family of a Basingstoke grandfather who thought he would not live past Easter have praised hospital staff after he beat coronavirus. Read more on page 15.
  • Whilst 98 per cent of next year's primary school intake in Hampshire have secured one of their top three choices, there is disappointment as one in ten are set to miss out on their top choice. Read more on page 27.
  • An 18-year veteran volunteer for the fire service is preparing to switch to driving an ambulance to help SCAS through the coronavirus pandemic. Read more on page 45.
  • An eight-page puzzle special for all your lockdown needs (pages 35-42).
  • Two pages of birthday, engagement and anniversary celebrations (pages 28-29).
  • Two pages of your letters (pages 16-17).
  • Two pages of news from communities including Sherfield, Chineham and Oakley (pages 30-31).
  • Three pages from our districts, including Tadley, Whitchurch and Hook (pages 32-34).
  • Two pages of business news (pages 63-64).
  • Three pages of entertainment news (pages 65-68).
  • And much more!

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