A man who carried out three months of sexual abuse in Preston has been jailed.
Robert Douglas raped and sexually abused a young girl.
The 26-year-old was also found to have more than 1,000 indecent images of children on his phone.
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Paedophile Douglas, of Ash Drive, Warton, pleaded guilty to 17 charges which took place between December last year and February in the Preston area.
As well as rape and abuse he sent his victim sexually explicit messages and encouraged her to send them too.
He will serve two-thirds of a 16 year custodial sentence, handed out at Preston Crown Court on Monday 20 July, before being eligible for parole. He was given a further four years on extended licence.
The father of Douglas’ victim 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 effects are ongoing, far reaching, and deeply painful. We are doing everything we can to support her, but the road ahead is long, and the consequences of this trauma are present in every corner of our lives.”
Detective constable Helen Morrison said: “I want to commend the victim’s extraordinary bravery. Her courage in coming forward and standing strong throughout this investigation was vital.
“Justice has been served with the sentencing of Douglas, a dangerous paedophile who preyed upon a vulnerable victim. 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.”
