(Image: North Yorkshire Police)
A sex offender who subjected a young girl in York to years of abuse has been jailed.
Ian Mark Wrightson, 54, of Holmes Closes in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, sexually assaulted the girl from 1990 to 1992.
The court heard how Wrightson would entice her to his room on the pretence of playing computer games and before each game, he would abuse her.
He had entered a not guilty plea to five offences but on Wednesday (August 5), he pleaded guilty to three counts of indecent assault on a girl under 14, and two counts of gross indecency with a girl under 14.
His brave victim said: “If my story can help someone in need, I would be so grateful that I had helped in a very small way by putting it out there and possibly giving them the strength to believe they can come forward themselves.
“I hope it will help people like me who have been so scared to come out and say something - whether it’s historic or current to speak up.”
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Helen Hewitt, added: “Wrightson’s cowardice in denying the offences he committed until just before the trial, forced the victim to endure the build up to the trial, reliving the horrific abuse she suffered.
“His guilty plea is a testament to the strength and courage shown by the victim and I hope the sentence passed will provide other victims of abuse the courage and confidence to come forward.
“North Yorkshire Police will work tirelessly to give victims of abuse a voice and achieve prosecutions against predatory offenders like Wrightson.
“The effects of sexual abuse are long-lasting and can affect all aspects of a victim’s life.
“I urge anyone who has been abused, no matter when it happened, to please come forward.
“If you don’t feel you can report to the police at the moment, there are other agencies who can help you but please do not suffer in silence.”
Wrightson was jailed the same day he pleaded guilty.
He was sentenced to three years and four months, barred from working with children and placed on the sex offenders register for life at Newcastle Crown Court.
To report rape or sexual abuse to North Yorkshire Police by call 101.
Alternatively, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre is contactable on 0330 223 0362 for those who would prefer not to go directly to police.