Newtownards Man Jailed For Rape Of A Child

A 39-year-old man from Newtownards has been sentenced to a total of nine years at Downpatrick Crown Court for the rape of a child and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The man, who cannot be named in order to protect the identity of the victim, will serve four years and six months in prison and four years and six months on licence. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for an indefinite period and subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) for 10 years. Welcoming the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Stewart said: "The betrayal of trust and abandonment of all semblance of care to the victim in this case, a child, was abhorrent.

"I would like to commend the victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward and working with detectives throughout the investigation. It takes huge courage to take that first step of reaching out and breaking the cycle of abuse.

"Tackling sexual abuse against vulnerable children remains a priority for the Police Service of Northern Ireland. We have specialist officers who provide support to victims and work with services dedicated to giving victims the help and advice they need.

"If you, or anyone you know, has ever experienced any form of sexual abuse, please contact police on 101 or call 999 in an emergency."