Sex offender George Gibbs had already been jailed four times

The abuse inflicted by George Gibbs resulted in the children suffering psychological harm that would affect them for the rest of their lives, Southampton Crown Court was told.

Gibbs was convicted following a trial and a subsequent retrial, but the case was adjourned until yesterday for a pre-sentence report.

Hampshire police (Image: Hampshire police)

Charles Gabb, prosecuting, said Gibbs had 30 previous convictions, all for non-sexual offences, and had served four prison sentences.

Keely Harvey, defending, said: "There is little I can say by way of mitigation. There is absolutely no doubt that the two girls suffered psychological trauma."

Judge Peter Henry praised the victims for the courage they showed in going to the police.

Contrasting their bravery with Gibbs's behaviour he told the defendant: "You went into hiding, failed to attend this court and were kept in custody until the first trial.

"You did attend the second trial, but absconded on the second day.

"That conduct, in my judgement, chimes entirely with the assessment of the probation officer, who has assessed you as being totally self-absorbed."

Sex offender George Gibbs was jailed for more than ten years at Southampton Crown Court. (Image: Newsquest)

Gibbs, 55, of Harefield Road, was jailed for ten years for sexually assaulting two girls under the age of 13, plus three months for breaching bail.

He was also made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order and two restraining orders banning him from contacting his two victims, either directly or indirectly. All three orders will remain in place indefinitely.

Speaking after the case T/DC Dawn Capper, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team, referred to the outcome of the second trial.

She said: "Gibbs continually denied the offences, forcing his young victims to relive these traumatic experiences.

"To make matters worse he refused to attend, with the verdict being reached in his absence. By doing so Gibbs has shown complete disdain for his victims and not a shred of remorse.

"In contrast to his cowardice, the victims have demonstrated such bravery throughout the investigation.

"I would like to commend them for their actions, which have made Southampton a safer place by removing a dangerous predator from the streets."

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