A MAN has been jailed for more than seven years for the repeated sexual abuse of a young girl over many months.

Detectives have praised the victim and her family for their “bravery”, which led to Jamie Hollingsworth being put behind bars.

Hollingsworth, aged 37, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on Tuesday, October 4, after being found guilty at an earlier trial of causing or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.

The defendant, of Turbary Park Avenue, Bournemouth, was sentenced to seven years and nine months in prison, as well as being made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order for an indefinite period and was also placed on the sex offender’s register for life.

The charges related to the repeated abuse of a young girl over a nine-month period.

Bournemouth Echo:

Hollingsworth was arrested on Thursday, February 11, after the victim made disclosures to her family and they reported the matter to police.

Detective Constable Jo Shewbridge, of Dorset Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT), said: “I want to praise the young victim in this case and her family for having the courage to come forward and for the support they have given throughout the investigation and court process.

“Through their bravery, Jamie Hollingsworth has been forced to face the consequences of his abusive behaviour.

"I hope this might inspire others who have been the victims of sexual offences to come forward in the knowledge that they will be supported and we will do all we can to bring offenders to justice.”

Dorset Police said that non-urgent reports, or anyone who wants to make an enquiry, can visit dorset.police.uk/contact to pass on the details of concerns using the online enquiry form. Residents can also email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or call 101. If it is believed that a child is in immediate danger, dial 999.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

Support services include STARS Dorset – starsdorset.org/children-and-young-persons-service and 01202 308858 – and The Shores Dorset Sexual Assault Referral Centre – 01202 552056.

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