A RAPIST jailed for abusing a child has been described as a 'devious and brutal' man by police.

Michael O’Sullivan, 79, of Eldridge Close, Abingdon, was jailed for 22 years at Oxford Crown Court on Friday, December 8.

Following a two-week trial, the jury found O’Sullivan guilty of seven counts of rape and three counts of indecent assault.

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The jury found O’Sullivan not guilty of two other counts of indecent assault.

O’Sullivan raped and sexual assaulted a child on numerous occasions. He was charged on 23 February last year.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Bryn Smith, of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “Michael O’Sullivan is a devious and brutal man, who frustrated the police investigation by continuously lying and making up bizarre and unconvincing defences to cover his offending.

“O’Sullivan maintained his not guilty plea throughout, despite conclusive and overwhelming forensic evidence against him.

“By doing so, he made his victim have to endure the harrowing experience of attending court to relive the physical and mental pain of the experiences she had at his hands. 

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“I commend the victim for her bravery and that of those who continue to support her; I hope that this conviction will help her to move on."