John Smith, 49, was sentenced to nine years and eight months in prison for the sexual abuse of a young girl.

Smith, who previously lived in Exeter and is now from Basingstoke, pleaded guilty to two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and three counts of sexual assault.

The abuse began when the girl was 13 and escalated over a two-year period. It culminated in a rape in December 2018, after which the victim confided in a friend on Snapchat.

The friend contacted the police, leading to Smith's arrest and conviction. Forensic evidence confirmed the rape, leaving Smith with no choice but to plead guilty.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge David Evans highlighted the impact of the abuse on the victim, who is now facing months of therapy.

"She was scared to say anything to anyone in authority and worried about telling anyone what you were doing," the judge said. "I have read her victim personal statement. It is clear the impact on her of your abuse has been serious and she is struggling. She is facing the prospect of months of therapeutic work."

The judge also praised the victim's courage and her friend's quick action in contacting the police.

Smith was placed on the sex offenders register for life and subjected to a sexual harm prevention order for 25 years.