Pensioner paedophile jailed for sex offences in Doncaster

Ian David Cross, aged 71, of Fernhurst Road, Wheatley Hills, pleaded guilty to nine sex offences, including indecent assault and engaging in sexual activity with a child.

His two victims were under 16 when the offences were committed between 2002 and 2009.

The abuse of one victim occurred over a two-year period, with Cross using money and sweets to bribe her in an attempt to stop her from reporting the abuse.

One of the victims spoke to South Yorkshire Police in March and an investigation was launched, during which a second victim was identified.

Temporary Detective Sergeant Laura Jones, of the child abuse investigation team, said: “I hope that Friday’s sentencing will enable the victims to begin to rebuild their lives after the abuse they suffered at the hands of Cross.

“I would like to praise the courage of the victims and the bravery they how shown in reporting the matter to us.

“It is a testament to the victims’ bravery that Cross is now facing eight years behind bars and we are committed to taking swift action against anyone believed to be responsible for despicable crimes like these.”

Cross has also been placed on the sex offenders register for life.