Predator jailed for nearly two decades for raping and sexually assaulting a girl.

Stephen Frame, 34, was sentenced to 17 years behind bars for the abuse he inflicted on his victim.

The brave survivor came forward in 2022 and reported the abuse to the police, prompting an immediate investigation by the Force's Safeguarding Department.

Frame was swiftly arrested, but denied the allegations against him. In 2023, he was charged with a series of offenses, including rape and sexual assault.

In April, Frame appeared at Newcastle Crown Court, where a jury saw through his lies and convicted him of all counts of the sexual abuse.

On Tuesday (July 2), he was sentenced to 17 years behind bars. He will also spend the rest of his life on the Sex Offenders' Register and was given a life-long Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and restraining order to further monitor his behavior when he is released from prison.