A man who subjected two girls to repeated sexual abuse across a nine-year period of offending has been jailed for 27 years.

Andrew John Butler, aged 54, was convicted of seven counts of rape, two charges of rape of a child under 13 and two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13.

The abuse took place between 2010 and 2019 in the North Dorset area and involved two victims, police said.

Following information received and investigations by detectives, Butler, who lived near Blandford, was arrested on Thursday, February 11, 2021.

He was found guilty of all offences following a trial at Bournemouth Crown Court.

Detective Constable Adam Taylor, of Dorset Police, said: “I want to praise the victims in this case for the courage they have shown in coming forward and supporting our investigation as well as the strength they have shown throughout the court process.

“Andrew Butler subjected these girls to horrific sexual abuse and through their bravery in coming forward, he has now been held accountable for his actions and faces a significant period behind bars.

“I hope this sends a message to all victims of sexual abuse that we will do all we can to investigate offences and ensure offenders are brought to justice, while we will also make sure victims are supported.

“I also want to thank our partners in the Crown Prosecution Service for their assistance in bringing this case.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Dorset Police said non-urgent reports, or to make an enquiry, in relation to child abuse can be made at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101. Anyone who believes a child is in immediate danger should dial 999. Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Support is available from Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services (STARS Dorset) online at starsdorset.org/children-and-young-persons-service or call 01202 308858, and The Shores – Dorset Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 01202 552056.