'Vile' Harrogate paedophile jailed
North Yorkshire PoliceA man who carried out "horrendous" sex attacks on two young girls in the Harrogate area more than a decade ago has been jailed.
Charles Andrew Chapman was found guilty of 19 sexual abuse charges, including the rape of a girl under 13, at York Crown Court on Thursday.
Chapman, 61, of Sycamore Road, Barlby, Selby, was sentenced to 20 years in prison and placed on the Register of Sex Offenders for life.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "I highly commend the bravery of both victims in reporting the horrendous sexual abuse they suffered as children at the hands of this vile man."
Det Sgt Kirsty Smith, who led the investigation, said: "Chapman denied the allegations throughout the whole investigation, therefore making the victims go through the nerve-wracking process of giving evidence against him at court."
"I hope this outcome gives them a feeling of hope for a happier future.
She added: "This case shows that it is never too late to report sexual abuse. We are here to help and make sure you receive the best care and support."
In addition to the custodial sentence, Chapman has also been made the subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, the court heard.
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