Paedophile subjected victim to years of abuse

The child rapist was found guilty of 22 offences

A child rapist who subjected a young girl to years of sexual abuse has been jailed for 21 years.

Liverpool Crown Court was told Graham Jones, previously known as Graham Peacock, committed the offences in Warrington, Cheshire.

Jones, of Clonners Field in Stapeley, near Nantwich, was found guilty of 22 offences following a trial.

In addition to the custodial sentence handed down on Friday, the 64-year-old will also have to serve five years on extended licence upon release from prison.

'Restraining orders'

Jones was convicted of four counts of rape, 14 of indecent assault and four of gross indecency with a child.

The court heard how the abuse took place in the Warrington area over several years, beginning when his victim was nine years old.

The offences were reported in May 2022 and, following inquiries, Jones was arrested and ultimately charged in June 2024.

The judge also ordered Jones's details to be included on the Sex Offenders' Register for life.

Jones is also the subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order as well as restraining orders to protect his victim.

'Despicable man'

Detective Constable Caroline Wharmby said she commended the bravery of the victim for speaking out.

"No-one should have to go through what she has been through, and I hope the conclusion of this court process will help to bring her some sense of closure," she said.

"Although nothing will make her forget what this despicable man did, her evidence and courage has meant he is now behind bars for a significant length of time, where he can't do this to anyone else."

The Cheshire Police officer said Jones was "clearly a sexual predator, taking advantage of an innocent young girl for his own twisted gratification".

She said the prolonged nature of the sexual abuse proved he had absolutely no regard for his victim.