An Isle of Wight man has been jailed for 18 years after being found guilty of multiple offences of non-recent child sexual abuse.

Michael Norman Smith, aged 61, formerly of Willow Way in Sandown was found guilty following a trial at Isle of Wight Crown Court on Friday 1 August of:

• Three counts of rape of a child under 13.
• Sexual assault of a child under 13 by digital penetration.
• Two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child under 13
• Three counts of causing/inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity
• Two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child aged 13-15

The offences were perpetrated against a boy between 1 May 2004 and 31 March 2010 on the Isle of Wight.

DC Amy Hicks, who investigated the case, said: ‘The sentence imposed by the Judge recognises the seriousness of Smith’s offending and I hope that it provides some closure for the victim. This significant sentence ensures that Smith will be in prison for a very long time and will not be able to target other children in the community.

Our commitment to bringing offenders to justice is underlined when long-running and complex investigations like this result in such a significant sentence and I hope this sends a clear message that crimes of this nature will not be tolerated. I hope this outcome prompts victims of similar offences to contact us when they are ready to, so that we are able to secure justice for them as well”.

We want to encourage anyone who has been affected by child sexual abuse to contact police on 101, where you can speak to an officer in confidence.

We recognise that not everyone has the confidence to talk to police about what they have experienced. Please be reassured that there are other services available that can offer you specialist support to help you deal with the impact of abuse.

For information and contact details relating to sexual abuse support services, you can visit our dedicated web page: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/

You can also find out more about how to report, and seek support for child abuse here: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/caa/child-abuse/

Alternatively, contact Child Line on 0800 11 11, or if you are an adult who has been affected, you can call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.