A depraved paedophile and predator has been sentenced to 18 years in prison after he was found guilty of multiple sex offences against a child.

Scott Daniels' catalogue of abuse of a youngster was uncovered after she bravely told her mother of the abuse.

The victim’s mother informed Northumbria Police, and officers launched an investigation into Daniels.

He was arrested and in interview, denied that any of the offences against the victim had taken place.

The Northern Echo: Scott DanielsScott Daniels (Image: NORTHUMBRIA POLICE)

Daniels, 37, was charged with three or more counts of rape of a child, three or more counts of sexual penetration and two or more counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity, all relating to the same victim. 

He denied all of the offences but was convicted by a jury following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court in August, after which he was remanded in custody.

On Friday, December 1, Daniels, of St John’s Green, North Shields, was sentenced to 18 years in prison and a five-year licence period.

Daniels was also handed a restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim and given a sexual harm prevention order. He will also remain on the sex offenders’ register for life.

Following his sentencing, Detective Constable Natasha Wilson, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to pay tribute to the victim in this case who, along with their family, has shown tremendous bravery.

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“No child should ever have to experience any type of abuse, and I hope this sentence shows we will absolutely not tolerate offenders like Daniels by bringing them to justice.”

Det Con Wilson added: “Daniels is a dangerous individual and it is only right that he is removed from the community and put behind bars for a considerable period of time where he cannot cause harm or suffering to anyone else.

“As a Force, we will continue to protect our communities by pursing predators such as him, preventing these vile offences from being carried out and offering any necessary support to anyone who comes forward."