Detectives have expressed their praise for the bravery of a rape victim after her two attackers were jailed following a two-week long trial.

Rapist brothers Maurice, 74, and 64-year-old John Edwards began their offending when they were young men and the survivor came forward as an adult to report the devastating abuse she suffered at their depraved hands.

Officers from Cleveland Police CAVA (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adult Unit), interviewed the pair at length before they were charged with a variety of sexual offences.

Maurice Edwards of Tithe Barn Road, Stockton, was jailed for 27 years and six months after being found guilty of two counts of rape and indecent assault.

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And John Edwards of May Street, Hartlepool, received an 18-year sentence with an additional year extended licence after being found guilty of two counts of rape and two counts of indecency with a child.

The Northern Echo: John EdwardsJohn Edwards (Image: Cleveland Police)

CAVA Detective Constable Mel Phelps said: “This was a horrific case involving two brothers carrying out extensive abuse – one against a child and the other as the survivor reached adulthood. 

“Their actions have had a massively detrimental effect on the survivor, sadly causing lasting effects.

“I can’t praise the survivor enough for their bravery though – throughout the investigation and during the trial itself. The trauma of having to go over these devastating events must have been unbearable but we all shared a determination to achieve justice and to see both Edwards brothers dealt with.

“I hope the lengthy sentences handed to these men demonstrate police and the judicial system’s view of such horrendous offending, and that the survivor can continue to move forwards with their life."

Both men were also made subject to a lifelong restraining order preventing them from contacting their victim, and they will be placed on the sex offenders’ register on release from prison.

CAVA Acting Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Waterfield added: “I wish the survivor the very best for the future; their courage and unwavering determination to seek justice after their unimaginable and harrowing experience is absolutely awe-inspiring.

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“I would also take this opportunity to remind anyone who has experienced any kind of abuse, however long ago, that they can report in complete confidence to Cleveland Police.

“We’re committed to doing all we can to achieve justice for survivors and we work very closely with specialist partner agencies to ensure anyone affected is supported, while we gather the best possible evidence to bring charges.

“We will listen to you, we will believe you and we will support you.”

People can report abuse online via the Cleveland Police website or by phoning 101 at any time of day or night.