A girl who was raped and sexually abused by a 'dangerous' paedophile has been praised for her bravery by police. Robert Douglas, 26, from the village of Warton in Lancashire, was a registered sex offender when he carried out his vile sexual abuse between December last year and February. He raped the young girl and demanded she send him sexually explicit messages in return for his.
Police investigation and sentencing
A police search of his phone uncovered over 1,000 indecent images of children. Douglas was sentenced to 16 years and four years on extended licence at Preston Crown Court on July 20, according to Lancashire Police.
Det Cons Helen Morrison from Lancashire Police said: 'I want to commend the victim's extraordinary bravery. Her courage in coming forward and standing strong throughout this investigation was vital.'
Victim's father statement
In a heart-breaking statement, the girl's father said everything changed after Douglas's abuse. He said: 'My daughter has always been the heart of our family. She was bright, confident, and full of life. Watching her grow into a bright, thoughtful, compassionate and socially vibrant young girl has been one of my greatest joys as her father. Since the abuse, everything has changed. The impact on her emotional wellbeing has been devastating.'
The youngster's dad, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said the effects of Douglas's abuse are ongoing, far-reaching and 'deeply painful'. He said family members are doing everything they can to support their loved one, but the road ahead is long. His statement ends: 'The consequences of this trauma are present in every corner of our lives.'
Police commendation and message to victims
Det Cons Morrison welcomed Douglas's sentencing, saying justice was served. She described Douglas as a dangerous paedophile who preyed upon a 'vulnerable' victim, adding: 'His significant custodial sentence reflects the horrific nature of his actions. I want all victims of sexual offences to know that, should they choose to come forward, they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity, professionalism, and respect. We hope this result brings the victim some peace and closure as she moves forward with her recovery.'
Details of conviction
Douglas was convicted of multiple sexual offences after pleading guilty to 17 charges, including the rape and sexual abuse of a child. He was also convicted of possession of category A, B and C images of young children. The paedophile will have to serve two thirds of his 16 year custodial sentence before being eligible for parole.
