Today, Friday 27th October, an 80 year old man from the Hillsborough area was sentenced at Craigavon Crown Court for a number of sexual offences including rape and sexual assault of child under 13 years.

The man, who cannot be named in order to protect the victim’s identity, was sentenced to six years and six months. He will serve three years and three months in custody and three years and three months on licence. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely. 

Detective Chief Inspector Leah Crothers said: “No child should ever be subjected to this horrific abuse or have their innocence taken away from them in this way. 

“The young girl in this case has shown immense bravery in coming forward and helping to bring her perpetrator to justice. 

“She has suffered in silence for many years and finally her voice has been heard. 

“If you or someone you know has been the victim of any form of sexual abuse, you can always report it to the Police at any time, no matter how long after the events. Call 101 or always dial 999 in an emergency.”