Paedophile jailed for 'abhorrent' sexual abuse

A man has been jailed for the "abhorrent" sexual abuse of two children more than 30 years ago.

Jason Hardman, of Thorpe Hesley, committed the offences in the late 1980s and early 1990s in Rotherham.

The 51-year-old had denied nine offences, including indecent assault, attempted rape and gross indecency, but was found guilty after a trial Sheffield Crown Court heard.

He was jailed on Monday for eight years and ordered to sign the sex offenders register indefinitely.

South Yorkshire Police said Hardman's offending came to light when one of the victims made a report in 2022.

The force said the victim provided a detailed account, which included disclosures of "years of abhorrent sexual abuse".

Through further inquiries, a second victim was identified and Hardman was subsequently arrested and charged.

Investigations officer Julie Towers, who was the officer in charge in this case, said: "The courage of both victims is to be commended.

"I hope this result shows that it is never too late to disclose any incidents of sexual offences and rape."

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