Wolverhampton man, 64, jailed for sexually abusing a child in the 1970s

John Harris, aged 64, was convicted of nine offences after his victim was able to help police investigators compile a case against him.

At Wolverhampton Crown Court, he was convicted of eight counts of rape and one count of sexual intercourse with a girl under 13.

The offences dated back to 1976. Harris was sentenced on Friday (June 13) to 12 years in prison for his crimes.

In addition to the jail term, he has also been added to the sex offenders register for life.

Detective Inspector Emma Jobson, from the West Midlands Police dedicated non-recent rape and serious sexual offences team, said: "All our cases start with the person who suffered the abuse, and it was this woman's strength and fortitude which has meant Harris has now been convicted of crimes carried out many, many years ago.

"Despite the passing of time, we have the commitment and expertise to help identify and then trace crucial evidence which has seen this perpetrator being successfully prosecuted.

"In this case, as with many others which date back years, the laws and legislation which were in force at the time have to be adhered to.

"But that does not prevent us from being able to develop an investigation which sees offenders convicted years after the abuse."

For advice on how to report rape, sexual assault or other sexual offences, visit the West Midlands Police website.