Today in the Royal Court, Jose Angelo Da Silva was sentenced to 4 years in prison for the sustained and serious sexual abuse of a young girl over the space of a year. He was placed on the Sex Offender’s Register for 5 years.

Da Silva was clearly only interested in satisfying his own sexual gratification and gave no thought or consideration to the abuse that he was subjecting his young victim to.

The victim has shown incredible courage in reporting what had happened to her and since the initial disclosure has shown strength and commitment in supporting this investigation.

Sexual abuse of young people will not be tolerated and the police will be proactive in investigating such crimes and where evidence exists put offenders before court, even if the disclosure is made some years later.

The police have specially trained officers who are skilled at working with victims of sexual abuse to help them through extremely difficult times.

Any parents who have concerns about suspected Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation can contact the MASH on 519000 or the Public Protection Unit at Police Headquarters via 612612.