Vicious rapist from Huddersfield who preyed on boys who got more jail time

A rapist from Huddersfield has been handed more jail time after being found guilty of multiple sex offences.

Duane Holland, 38, was already serving a 12-year sentence in HMP Armley prison when he was sentenced to a further four years for sex offenses against two boys. The former Boys’ Brigade leader was also given a five-year extended license and a sexual harm prevention order at Leeds Crown Court on Wednesday 10 July.

The sentence came after Holland, who was involved in the church’s youth movement in Huddersfield, was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of assault in prison against two victims, then aged under 16.

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The abuse took place between 2000 and 2004 and was reported to West Yorkshire Police in 2020 when the victims came forward as adults. DC Paul Campbell, who led the inquiry, said: “The conviction and sentence of Holland today represents justice for both victims, who showed real courage in coming forward and reporting the offending that Holland committed against them.

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“It also shows that even if someone has been convicted of crimes, it’s never too late to come forward and report what happened. I want to reiterate that we are a victim focused organization and will always listen to and investigate any report of a sex crime.

“We cannot stress enough how important it is that serious offenders such as Holland are held to account properly for what they have done and that victims can know they have been heard and given any support they could may need. “

As part of the investigation launched by Kirklees District Child Protection Unit, officers traveled abroad to speak to one of the victims.

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DC Campbell said: “One of the victims was living in Sweden at the time the report was made, but through co-operation with police colleagues there, arrangements were made for me to speak to him in that country.

“This case really demonstrates that, regardless of when the offense took place or even if the victim no longer lives in the UK, we will make every effort to investigate all reports made to us.”

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In 2013, Holland was sentenced to 12 years in prison after being found guilty of 10 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape after targeting young men over a 14-year period.

He admitted causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, attempting to facilitate a sexual offence, three counts of sexual activity with a child, three counts of indecent photography and eight counts of making indecent photographs.

He was eventually caught after sending suggestive messages to a Humberside boy he had met at a camp.