A FORMER Cardigan man has been given a 20-year prison sentence after being convicted of raping a girl under the age of 16.

After a five-day trial at Swansea Crown Court, 53-year-old Kevin John Turner, who now lives in Felindre, Swansea, was found guilty of eight counts of rape, three counts of sexual activity with a child, four counts of sexual assault and possession of indecent images of a child.

On Wednesday, 10 May, at Swansea Crown Court, Judge Geraint Walters sentenced Turner to 20 years jail and instructed him to serve a minimum of 13 years and six months. He will be required to register as a sex offender for life.

The offences took place when Turner was living near Cardigan.

Detective Inspector Richard Yelland said: “Dyfed-Powys Police welcomes the lengthy sentence handed down in this case.

“The harm caused to victims of sexual abuse lasts far beyond the incident.

“The sentencing recognises the lifetime of psychological harm caused to Mr Turner’s victim.

“This was a lengthy and difficult investigation for detectives based in Ceredigion, but their determination ensured we provided the courts with a strong evidence package that allowed justice to be serviced on behalf of the victim.

“I hope this outcome will give anyone else who has, or is, suffering similar abuse to come forward and report it to police.

“You can report it by calling 101 and specially trained officers would be able to offer support and investigate the crime.”