A paedophile has been jailed for more than 25 years for raping two children

In some instances, Karl Young, 33, offered his victims alcohol and made aggressive threats towards them if they did not comply with his advances.

Both victims bravely raised the alarm about Young to those around them who informed Northumbria Police, and he was arrested in December of last year.

Following a thorough investigation by specialist officers from the force’s safeguarding department, he was charged with a string of sexual offences including rape.

While initially denying any involvement, Young, of St Marks Way in South Shields, later pleaded guilty to nine offences including assault by penetration, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, sexual assault, and four counts of rape of a child at Newcastle Crown Court on May 7.

He was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.

On Friday, Young appeared before the same court where a judge sentenced him to 25 years and six months in prison, and a further year on licence.

He will also spend the rest of his life on the Sex Offenders’ Register, and was handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Leading the investigation for Northumbria Police was Detective Constable Gavin James.

Speaking after Young’s sentencing, he said: “Young is a calculated predator, who used alcohol and aggression to coerce his victims into sexual activity.

“I would like to commend both of the survivors in this case for the immeasurable bravery they have shown throughout the whole process.

“From coming forward and raising the alarm to those around them, and then having to re-live their pain speaking about Young’s horrific actions towards them.

“Ultimately, their unwavering support has allowed us to bring a vile offender like Young to justice – and I hope the survivors and their loved ones are able to find some closure in today’s outcome knowing he is now behind bars.”

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Det Con James added: “I hope this sends a clear message to those who have committed these types of crimes – you won’t get away with them and we’ll do everything in our power to put dangerous offenders like Young before the courts.

“Most importantly, this result is an example of what we can do when we work together to support survivors of sexual offences and hold their abusers to account.

“If you’ve been a victim of sexual abuse, please know that we can help you – and we will listen to you.

“Please come forward and report anything of concern today.”