JUSTICE has finally caught up with a disgraced NHS manager who sexually abused a young girl more than 50 years ago.

Michael Redgrave, 72, of Barn Close, Crewkerne, abused the girl aged between six and eight while living in the Teignbridge area in the 1960s.

He was found guilty of seven charges including buggery, attempted rape and indecency with a child following a trial in January.

He was sentenced to 11 years' prison at Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday (February 14).

DC Victoria Hayward, who led the investigation, praised the bravery of the victim who reported the offences to police in February 2018.

“Her tenacity, strength, courage and resilience throughout the investigation and the court trial have been extraordinary,” said DC Hayward.

“The abuse she suffered as a young child has had a significant impact on her for the whole of her life, affecting her physical and mental health and relationships.

“It is hoped that the victim can now move forward in her life and that the outcome of the investigation and the conviction of Redgrave will bring some closure for her.

“The victim, who had never been to court before in her life, stated that all she ever wanted was for people to believe her.

“The investigation gave her the opportunity to air her demons and took away the stigma she had always felt.

“Somehow, just going through the process gave her total peace in her mind, due to the wonderful kindness of the officer in the case and her colleagues.

“The victim has said she does not have the words to appreciate all that has been done for her and she would be forever grateful for the support she has received and the hard work and determination that has resulted in this conviction.

“After receiving the guilty verdict, she said that the negativity that she had borne was beginning to disappear."

Detective Superintendent Nicky Seager, Devon and Cornwall Police’s sexual offences lead, said: “I welcome the custodial sentence of Michael Redgrave which demonstrates that, despite significant time passed, those responsible for such despicable crimes will be investigated fully.

“I wish to commend the bravery and perseverance of the victim in this case and all those who supported in achieving this outcome including the investigating officers, our partners at the Crown Prosecution Service and the Independent Sexual Violence Advisor services from First Light.

“I would like to reassure the public that the force takes all reports of sexual abuse seriously and this conviction illustrates how we are determined to bring offenders to justice no matter how long ago a crime may have taken place.”

*Anyone who may have been affected by anything raised in this article can contact police in their local area by emailing 101@dc.police.uk or calling 101.

The freephone NSPCC helpline 0808 800 5000 is available for anyone to report or seek advice about non-recent abuse. Calls can be made anonymously.