A MAN has been jailed for sexually assaulting a girl and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Kerry Walters, 42 and of Sturminster Newton, was sentenced on October 18 at Bournemouth Crown Court for the two counts.

Following a detailed investigation by Dorset Police’s child abuse investigation team, Walters stood trial and was convicted on September 5.

The victim reported the offences in November 2019 which are said to have occurred around four years earlier.

Walters was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison and will be subject to an extended license period of one year.

Detective constable Mark Walsh, of CAIT, said: “I want to thank the victim in this case for the immense bravery she has shown firstly in coming forward to report Walters’ abusive behaviour and then the support she has given throughout the investigation and court proceedings.

“I hope that her courage will inspire others who have been the victim of abuse to come forward in the knowledge that they will be supported and we will do everything in our power to ensure offenders are held accountable for their actions.”

Dorset Police said it does not hold a custody image of Walters.