A SOUTHAMPTON man has been jailed after sexually assaulting two girls under the age of 13.
George Gibbs was reported to police on September 27, 2020, following the incidents which took place after July 2018.
Police and specialist officers launched an investigation after the first report was made, leading to Gibbs' arrest.
The 55-year-old of Harefield Road was charged with two counts of sexually assaulting a child under 13.
This related to two separate girls.
Failing to attend the conclusion of his trial, he was found guilty and appeared at Southampton Crown Court.
Appearing at the same court today, he was jailed for 10 years and three months.
T/DC Dawn Capper from the Child Abuse Investigation Team said he showed "complete distain for his victims and not a shred of remorse" by not attending when the verdict was being reached.
"Gibbs continually denied the offences, forcing his young victims to relive these traumatic experiences in the trial.
"In contrast to his cowardice, these two victims have demonstrated such bravery throughout the investigation and I would like to commend them for their actions, which have made Southampton a safer place by removing a dangerous predator from the streets.
"If you or a loved one has experienced a similar situation, then I hope reading this encourages you to report what has happened to us.
"We will take your report seriously, support you every step of the way and do our best to ensure you receive justice."
To report a possible child sex offence, police can be contacted by calling 101 or online.
A message from the Editor
Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.
Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.
You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.
Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook
Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article