POLICE have praised the bravery of a rape victim after she helped convict her serial abuser two decades after his crimes occurred.

Simon Jacobs of Chase Lane, Dovercourt, was handed a 13-year sentence at the Old Bailey yesterday.

The 60-year-old will be forced to spend at least two thirds of the sentence in custody.

It comes after Jacobs was found guilty of six counts of sexual assault and three counts of rape between 1999 and 2003 at Chelmsford Crown Court in April this year.

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Now Essex Police are applauding the victim who helped them reach a conviction for their bravery during their investigation and the trial.

The victim came forward last year but is understood to have been under the age of 15 when the first offence took place.

Detective Sergeant Shirley Cole is a member of the Quest Team which specialises in non-recent sexual abuse cases and carried out the investigation.

She said: "The victim in this case has shown such courage and dignity throughout this process, and her honesty has led to a predator being convicted.

“Jacobs’ crimes were abhorrent and the fact that his victim, who was an innocent child, has carried feelings of guilt and shame for two decades is unforgivable.

“I’m so sorry that she had to suffer at his hands, but I’m glad that, when she felt able to, she was confident in reporting the abuse to us.

“I know it won’t undo everything that happened to her, but I do hope today’s result can lead her to learn to live, and to be free – just as I know she wants to be.

"DC Jane Egerton, who led on this case, worked tirelessly to secure justice, with equal amounts of compassion and determination.

“It’s never too late to tell your story and have your voice heard, so if you’ve been in a similar situation, no matter the time frame, please reach out to us.”