A sick rapist took advantage of a schoolgirl after picking her up from a party. 

Mark Alderson offered to give the girl a lift home from a party in September.

But instead of taking her straight home, the 37-year-old pulled over in a dark side street and sexually assaulted her before raping her twice.

Alderson warned the girl not to tell anyone what he had done, otherwise “he would go to court”.   

However, the girl bravely told her parents what had happened after being dropped off at home, and officers arrested Alderson a short time later.

Read more: North East pervert arrested carrying sex toy on his way to meet' 12-year-old girl'

The Northern Echo: Mark Alderson Mark Alderson (Image: Durham police)

Detectives from Darlington CID and the Volume Crime Team worked for more than 17 hours straight to gather evidence, which included interviewing several witnesses, gathering CCTV footage, and arranging for a medical examination of the victim.

Alderson, of Davison Road, Darlington, was charged with sexual assault, and two counts of rape, and remanded in custody.

He pleaded guilty to all charges and appeared at Teesside Crown Court last week, where he was jailed for nine years and eight months.

Detective Sergeant Liam Robertson, from Darlington Volume Crime Team, said: “This was a particularly fast-paced investigation which involved officers diligently remaining on duty long after they were due to finish.

“All those involved in the case worked extremely hard to ensure a successful outcome for the victim and to safeguard others from potential harm.

“I’d like to commend the girl for her bravery in coming forward and reporting what had happened to her parents – her courage ensured we could act quickly to secure vital evidence to charge Alderson and remand him in custody.

“I hope this result will now provide her with some form of closure and allow her to move on with her life.”

He added: “If you have suffered sexual abuse, please come forward and report it to us – either on 101, or in an emergency by calling 999.

“We take all investigations into rape and sexual assault very seriously and will support you every step of the way.

“If you don’t want to talk to the police, you can still access help through The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre.”

To contact The Meadows, call 0333 448 283, or visit their website www.themeadowsdurham.org.uk.

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