STEPHEN Harrison, from Salisbury, has been jailed for 14 years after he admitted multiple counts of sexual assault on a child.

The 40-year-old, of Barrington Road, was sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on Tuesday (September 5).

At a previous hearing, he pleaded guilty to sexual assault on a child under 13 and attempted rape.

The offences took place on various dates between 2015 and 2020.

After he was sent behind bars, Detective Constable Dawn Rowan, of Wiltshire Police, said: “Firstly, I would like to praise the victim in this case who has shown bravery and courage well beyond her years in reporting this to police and ensuring this dangerous man is put behind bars.

“Harrison has shown little remorse for his despicable actions, continuing to lie through numerous police interviews before eventually pleading guilty in court.

“I am pleased that we were able to secure this conviction and see Harrison sentenced.

“We are committed to targeting individuals who commit such abhorrent crimes, regardless of how much time has passed since.

“I would urge anyone reading this who has experienced something similar to report it to police immediately – you will be fully supported through the process by specially trained officers.”

You can report concerns to police via 101.