A rapist sexually abused a girl for years.

Keith Williams was finally caught after the victim confided in a family member in May 2020 who contacted Sussex Police.

The girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has been supported by specially trained officers.

Detective Sergeant Nick Green praised the victim for her courage to come forward.

At Hove Crown Court on Friday, September 20, Williams, 60, was sentenced to a total of 20 years in prison.

Williams, of Tintern Close, Eastbourne, was found guilty after trial of four counts of rape of a girl under the age of 13.

He was found guilty of one count of sexual assault by penetration, one count of sexual assault by touching, and one count of child cruelty.

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The five-day trial at Lewes Crown Court concluded on Friday, August 2.

DS Green from the Eastbourne Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: “Williams carried out heinous crimes that breached the trust of his victim.

“She showed tremendous bravery and courage to report her experience to police.

“We take all reports of rape and sexual assault seriously and encourage victims to report their experience to police.

“We were determined to get justice for the victim and for other victims, to ensure that dangerous offenders are taken off our streets.”