Paedophile who abused child for five years jailed

A paedophile has been jailed after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting a child.

Donald Gordon, 62, of Aeron Place, Bargoed, was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday, April 1.

He was handed a five-year sentence – three years of which will be spent in jail, while the other two years will be spent on licence.

While on licence, Gordon will have to follow a set of rules. If he fails to do this, he would be recalled to prison.

A jury at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court had already found Gordon guilty of five counts of sexual assault against a girl under the age of 13 by touching.

The offences were committed against one victim between 2011 and 2016.

Gordon will be listed on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Detective Constable Samantha Davies, of Gwent Police, said: “Without the brave testimony of Donald Gordon’s victim, we would not have been able to bring him before the courts to face justice.

“He refused to accept responsibility for his crimes, forcing his victim to go through the ordeal of a trial.

“The courage, resilience and strength that the victim has shown throughout the investigation has been truly inspirational.

“We understand how difficult it can be for victims to take the first step and speak out about the horrific abuse they have endured.”

DC Davies continued: “We take all allegations of sexual assault, particularly against children, very seriously. If a report is made to us, our officers will investigate them thoroughly.

“I want to reassure anyone considering doing so that there is a whole range of support out there; not only from Gwent Police but from partner agencies who can help you through the entire process.

“There are support services available for victims of sexual abuse, both non-recent and current and for both adults and children. This help is also accessible to all genders.”

She added: “Sexual abuse can be reported to us via 101, or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”