A PAEDOPHILE has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for multiple sexual offences including rape of a child.

Dwayne Michael Sunderland, 33, of Clarence Drive, Cuddington, and is originally from Winsford, was found guilty of 13 sexual offences following a seven-day trail at Chester Crown Court.

The charges date back to incidents involving two separate victims that took place between July 2005 and August 2009.

They included five counts of sexual activity with a child, six counts of rape of a child, one count of sexual assault and one count of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Today, Wednesday, April 12, Sunderland was sentenced to a total of 17 years in prison and one year extended licence.

Investigating Officer Det Con Leanne Brundrett said: “The victims in this case have suffered greatly over the years. They have shown great bravery and courage in coming forward and talking about what happened to them.

“Sunderland has shown a blatant disregard for the victims making them come to court and give evidence during trial and re-living what had happened to them. I hope that they will be able to find some justice in the sentence that has been handed down to him today.

“We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously − no matter how long ago they took place. Victims of non-recent sexual offences can have the confidence in coming forward − we want to reassure victims that we are committed to tackling this type of crime and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.

“The force has a Dedicated Rape Unit that deals specifically with this type of crime − and has specialist officers who are able to provide support to victims and witnesses throughout an investigation. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim or witness of a sexual offence to come forward and report it.”

Anyone looking to report a sexual offence can contact Cheshire Police on 101. Information can also be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.