A THURROCK man who sexually abused a girl over the course of two years has been jailed for nearly a decade thanks to work by specialist police officers.

Thirty-five year-old Shane Clarke was jailed for eight-and-a-half years last week having admitted two counts of sexual activity with a child.

Clarke, formerly of Hall Crescent, South Ockendon, had assaulted the victim in Aveley on more than 15 ocassions between August 2019 and April 2021 when the abuse was reported to police.

He was arrested and later charged and, after admitting the offences, was sentenced at Southend Crown Court on 4 March.

Investigating officer PC Karen Smale, from the Adult Sexual Abuse Investigation Team (ASAIT), said: "Shane Clarke is a sexual predator who preyed upon the victim for his own sexual gratification.

"He subjected to her to a horrendous ordeal and now faces a significant spell in prison.

"I want to praise the courage of the victim throughout this investigation.

"It is difficult to imagine what she has been through but in spite of what has happened she has shown great bravery and dignity.

"I hope this sentencing will help her move forward."