A RAPIST who sexually abused a young girl has been put behind bars for 17 years.

Robert Cain, 35, was found guilty of 17 attacks on the youngster dating back to when she was under the age of 13.

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The defendant, of Holmbrook Close, Blackburn, was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault, eight of rape and a further two of inciting a female to engage in sexual activity without consent following a trial.

As well as the lengthy prison sentence, he was also made subject to a life-long sexual offences prevention order during a hearing at Preston Crown Court. Judge Christopher Cornwall said that the offences had cast a ‘dark shadow’ over the victim’s life.

The victim reported what had happened to her in February 2013. She told police about the historic assaults and how she had been raped.

Det Insp Paul Barlow, from the public protection unit, said the case was particularly difficult, but had been professionally handled by the team.

He said: “The sentence handed to Cain reflects the serious nature if the offences committed against a vulnerable young girl.

“The victims of these kinds of horrific offences will continue to be a priority for Lancashire Constabulary.

“Cain will be subject to the notification requirements of the sexual offences register and when he is released, he will be monitored for the rest of his life to ensure further child contact is prohibited.”

Det Insp Barlow also encouraged any victims of sexual offences to come forward and tell police safe in the knowledge that their complaint will be dealt with sensitively and professionally.

Anybody wishing to report a crime should call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

In an emergency always dial 999.