Man jailed for sexual offences against child
![A man wearing a black t-shirt looking at the camera](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/1024/cpsprodpb/f0c4/live/802d5f00-5bb5-11ef-81b2-f732384fec8f.png)
John Darby, 66, has been jailed for 19 years for sexual offences against a child after appearing at Basildon Crown Court
- Published
A man in his 60s has been jailed for 19 years after being found guilty of sexually abusing a child.
John Darby, 66, of Thames Road, Grays, Essex, appeared at Basildon Crown Court in Essex on Thursday after being found guilty of 14 sexual offences against a child.
Essex Police said Darby had started to abuse his victim when she was seven years old while he was working at a Thurrock Yacht Club, where he taught children how to sail.
Following his arrest, Darby denied the allegations against him during a police interview, said a spokesperson for the force.
Det Insp Emma Portfleet said: “The patience and bravery that this victim has demonstrated throughout the investigation is nothing short of admirable.
"Sexual offences often have a life-long impact on survivors but I hope that she is able to start moving forward and is proud of how she has conducted herself throughout this investigation."
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- Published13 August