East Devon sex offender jailed for 22 years

A man has been jailed for 22 years after being convicted of a string of historic sexual assaults on two young girls.

Paul McLean (pictured) was found guilty following a six-day trial at Truro Crown Court on Wednesday 3 February, and sentenced on Friday 5 February.

McLean, 50, of Talaton Road, Whimple, Exeter, was charged with 32 sexual offences relating to two young girls that were committed between 1992 and 2007 in Malvern, Worcestershire and Newquay, Cornwall.

McLean was found guilty of eight counts of indecent assault, four of sexual activity with a child, four of sexual assault, four of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, four of assault by penetration, three of indecency with a child, two of attempted rape and one of voyeurism.

Detective Constable Mark Anderson, Public Protection Unit, said: “The fact that the trial Judge sentenced Paul McLean to 22 years in prison shows the seriousness of his offending.

“He was sentenced after a six-day trial where he put both vulnerable victims through having to give evidence.

“The investigation into McLean started after the victims, who are now adults, found the strength to report the abuse they suffered to the police.

“This investigation and conviction were made possible by the hard work, dedication and support of the police sexual offences liaison officer, independent sexual violence advocates and victim intermediary.”