A former top motorbike racer, Connor Behan, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for the rape and sexual abuse of a young girl.

Behan, 33, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, raced superbikes from 2004 to 2015 and was the Irish road race super twins champion in 2014, also competing in the Isle of Man TT.

The case came to light in 2022 when the victim reported the abuse to her teacher. Police used a detection dog and found traces of Behan's DNA on a blanket owned by the victim.

In a week-long trial last year, Behan was found guilty of rape, sexual assault, and engaging in sexual activity in front of a child. The jury heard that the assaults began in May 2019.

During the sentencing at Chester Crown Court on February 7, Judge Michael Leeming criticized Behan for his lack of responsibility and empathy, highlighting elements of victim-blaming in his pre-sentence report.

Prosecutor Mark Connor emphasized the physical and psychological toll on the victim, who stated in a victim impact statement, "As a result of it I cannot be close to anyone. It affects everything and I take it out on my family and on my friends."

Behan's defense attorney, Adam Watkins, mentioned that Behan struggled with drinking and drug abuse following the death of his father; however, he clarified that this did not excuse his behavior.

Following his conviction, Behan will remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life, and a restraining order was also imposed.

Detective Sergeant Scott Graves of Cheshire Police commented on the case, praising the victim for her bravery and expressing hope that the verdict would provide her with closure. He stated, “Thankfully, the jury were able to see through his lies, and he will finally be held accountable for what he’s done. I hope this result will allow the victim to eventually move on with her life, now that Behan will be unable to hurt her ever again."