Paedophile John Ryan, 75, of Blackpool but previously of Tamworth in Staffordshire, has been sentenced for abusing a young victim over several years.
John Ryan disputed charges of rape, assault by penetration, sexual assault, and forcing or persuading a girl under 13 to participate in sexual activity, but was found guilty following a trial at Preston Crown Court.
John Ryan was apprehended following a police investigation that began after the brave victim spoke out about her suffering.
Detective Inspector Andrew Cook of Lancashire’s Child Abuse Investigation Team said: “First and foremost, I’d like to commend Ryan’s victim for having the strength to speak out about what she’s been through; it can’t have been easy, and I respect her bravery.
“John Ryan subjected this young girl to horrific abuse over a number of years in order to satisfy his own perverted sexual needs, and I applaud the harsh penalties that reflect the seriousness of his crimes.
“I hope the sentences handed down by the court give others who may have suffered similar abuse the courage to come forward and report it to police in the knowledge that we will investigate professionally and with sensitivity, regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred.”
John Ryan’s penalties for rape, sexual assault, assault by penetration, and inciting a minor totalled nearly 70 years, but they will be served concurrently (at the same time), resulting in 20 years.
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