A rapist has been jailed for 12 years after being found guilty of offences committed more than a decade ago.

Christopher Sams, 34, targeted his young victim for six years. The victim reported the abuse in 2021, prompting an investigation by Northumbria Police's Safeguarding Department. During the investigation, Sams, of Kenton Road, North Shields, was arrested and denied all charges.

He was later charged with eight counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. A week-long trial took place at Newcastle Crown Court in November, where Sams was found guilty by a jury on all counts.

Sams appeared at the same court on Friday, January 17, where he was sentenced to 12 years behind bars. He is also subject to a sexual harm prevention order and has been placed on the sex offender register.

"The courage and bravery shown by the survivor in this case is incredible," said Detective Constable Lucy Joyce of Northumbria Police, who led the investigation. "I hope the lengthy prison sentence ahead of Sams allows them to find some degree of closure."