July 2014
Bristol paedophile and rapist who abused two girls for decades jailed for 17 years
A paedophile and rapist from Bristol has been put behind bars for 17 years after committing numerous offences against two children over a decade.
Investigating officer, DS Emma George, of the Operation Bluestone team based in Bristol, said: “I hope the lengthy sentence given in this case acts as deterrent to others.”
Michael Jenkins, the 38-year-old, of Dunster Road, Knowle West was convicted of one rape, three sexual assaults and one indecent assault, following a trial at Bristol Crown Court.
He had previously admitted three sexual assaults, two counts of sexual activity with a child, 12 counts of making/taking an indecent photograph of a child, possessing an extreme pornographic image and one count of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
The jury heard how, from 2003, Jenkins repeatedly abused two girls who were aged between eight and 14.
DS Emma George said: “Michael Jenkins is a serial offender who put himself in situations where he could have easy access to young victims.
“One of his victims took the very brave step of contacting police in February, 2013, to report sexual offences committed against her as a child. A second victim came forward a short time later.
“Further to the abuse, Jenkins also used the internet to pursue his criminal interest and was found to have contacted an 11-year-old girl from Sheffield through Skype with the intention of trying to persuade her to visit him in Bristol for sex.
“I would like to praise all the victims in this case for disclosing the abuse they suffered. It can never be underestimated how hard it is for people to talk about these types of offences, as it often prompts very complex emotions and painful memories.
“The most important thing is that victims are believed, supported and protected and offenders like Michael Jenkins are brought to justice.
“I hope the lengthy sentence given in this case acts as deterrent to others.”
