GEORGE NEWS - Drama unfolded in the George Regional Court this afternoon, Friday 26 September, when convicted child rapist Ian Hoggins (50) attempted to take his own life moments after being sentenced to life behind bars.

Hoggins stabbed himself in the neck shortly after the court handed down his sentence. He was taken to hospital under police supervision.

He received a life sentence for the rape of a three-year-old girl after being found guilty in June this year. 

In addition, he was sentenced to five years for sexual assault and eight years for possession of child pornography. The sentences will run concurrently.

Before his suicide attempt Hoggins indicated that he intends to appeal his conviction and requested that his bail be extended. The court adjourned briefly following his request.

The court ruled that no compelling circumstances had been presented to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentence.

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