Jailed: Bewdley man who sexually abused child

Gary Oakes, of Trimpley Lane, Bewdley, was sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on Friday.

A trial followed in which he was found guilty of sexually abusing a girl under the age of 13 and violating a restraining order protecting against sexual abuse.

Oaks abused his victim over a period of three years, from August 2015 to August 18.

Detective Sergeant Phil Wood of West Mercia Police, who assisted in the investigation, said: “Oakes subjected his young victim to a sustained campaign of abuse which caused her enormous and long-lasting trauma and distress.”

“I am glad that he has been sentenced to a long prison sentence that will enable him to stop harming other young people.

“I cannot begin to imagine what the victim went through and I admire her courage in coming forward and reporting Oakes' abuse. I have no doubt the strength it took her to do so and the resilience she has shown throughout the process is immeasurable.

“I hope this case demonstrates that we take all reports of sexual assault incredibly seriously and will not hesitate to investigate and bring perpetrators to justice.”

Victims of sexual assault can call the victim hotline on 0800 9523000.