Child sex abuser jailed for 15 years

Dean Harris, of Trough Drive, Thrybergh, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on Tuesday to be sentenced.

At an earlier hearing, he admitted four counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration and two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13. 

On Monday, he entered a further guilty plea to one count of sexual activity with a child under 16.

Police began investigating Harris in March when his victims, who cannot be named, came forward to report sexual abuse. 

The abuse occurred in Rotherham while his victims were under the age of 16. Harris was arrested and charged with numerous sexual offences.

Det Con Emma Parsons said: “The victims in this case have shown remarkable bravery in coming forward and telling us about the horrific abuse they have endured and this courage should be commended.

“The judge recognised that the victims have been significantly affected by Harris’ abuse and had their childhoods marred by his criminality. 

“We can’t help but agree and we’re pleased that Harris has admitted his crimes before a court and received a lengthy custodial sentence.

“While this can never repair or erase the years of abuse his victims have suffered, I hope that with the conclusion of this court case they can now begin to move forward with their lives and the recovery process.

“This successful conviction demonstrates once more how committed we are to tackling child sexual abuse, listening to and supporting victims, and bringing offenders of this awful crime before the courts.”