Shropshire border pensioner jailed for 20 years over child sex offences
A pensioner from the Shropshire border has been jailed for 20 years for child sex offences dating back more than half a century.
Michael Powell carried out the offences between 1965 and 1970.
The 72-year-old, from Kington on the Mid Wales border, pleaded guilty to seven counts of indecent assault in December last year, before being found guilty at Hereford Crown Court in July of three counts of rape of a girl under the age of 16 and three further counts of indecent assault.
Powell, who carried out the offences in Malvern, Worcestershire, appeared at Worcester Crown Court yesterday for sentencing.
Detective Inspector Andy Price of West Mercia Police said: "This was a protracted and ground-breaking investigation that spanned two continents in order to obtain vital evidence from a very brave victim, who came forward after many years of fear and worry.
"We worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service and American Law Enforcement, learning many valuable lessons along the way in such global operations.
"The investigating officer showed tremendous tenacity, innovation and compassion in driving this inquiry through to a successful conclusion, with Michael Powell receiving a substantial prison sentence.
"We want and encourage victims to come forward knowing they will have our full support, and for offenders to realise they will be investigated however old the offences may be."
Police say if anyone has been the victim of a non-recent sexual offence, they can be reassured that if they choose to come forward, they will be treated in a caring and sensitive manner.
