A vile predator who subjected a nine-year-old girl to horrific sexual abuse while she was shackled in a dungeon-like basement has been locked up for 28 years.
The twisted individual, whose actions have sent shockwaves across the UK, was described by the judge as "one of the most dangerous offenders" they had ever encountered.
A Case That Shocked the Nation
The court heard harrowing details of how the young victim was restrained and abused in a purpose-built underground chamber. Prosecutors revealed the dungeon had been specially modified to facilitate the sickening attacks.
Detectives investigating the case described it as one of the most disturbing they had ever dealt with in their careers.
Justice Served
In sentencing, the judge told the defendant: "Your actions represent the very worst of human depravity. The psychological damage you've inflicted is immeasurable."
The court imposed an extended licence period of 6 years following the prison term, meaning the offender will be closely monitored until at least 2050.
Protecting the Vulnerable
Child protection charities have welcomed the lengthy sentence but warned more needs to be done to identify such predators before they can harm children.
A spokesperson for the NSPCC said: "While we're relieved this dangerous individual is off our streets, this case highlights the urgent need for better systems to protect children from such unimaginable cruelty."
The victim is now receiving specialist support, though experts warn the road to recovery will be long and difficult.
