72-year-old Man Jailed for Child Sexual Abuse

Michael Peter Wilson, from the Kirk Sandall area of Doncaster, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for repeatedly sexually abusing a child.

Wilson was found guilty of rape, sexual assault of a child, sexual activity with a child, and causing a child to engage in sexual activity following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court.

The abuse occurred on multiple occasions while the victim was under the age of 13. She eventually reported the abuse to police.

Det Con Rachael Ellis, South Yorkshire Police, commended the victim's bravery.

"She has been so incredibly brave over the course of our investigation, sharing with us and the court the shocking and horrific details of Wilson's abuse," said Ellis. "She recalled how he would groom her with treats in a bid to further his manipulation and control over her, a young child, as well as telling her how to behave in order to keep his sick crimes hidden from others."

Ellis added, "Wilson has shown absolutely no remorse for the harm he has caused, refusing to acknowledge his exploitative sexual offending. While I am pleased he has received a significant custodial sentence for his crimes and will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars, it does not diminish the damage he caused to an innocent child."