Paul Kelly (56) has been found guilty of 28 offences - including rape - following a trial at Jersey’s Royal Court.

The court heard Kelly sexually abused a girl over an eight year period. 

His offending became increasingly violent over time, including repeatedly raping his victim and leaving her unable to protect or defend herself. 

Detective Constable Caroline Foord - who led the police investigation - says the victim has shown an ‘incredible level of courage and strength’ to bring the case to court, having experienced ‘such appalling and distressing abuse over many years’.

"We are very grateful to the victim, who has co-operated with all the necessary lines of enquiry, to bring this matter before the Courts."

Police say their investigation revealed Kelly had manipulated those around him into thinking he was a safe person.

He has been convicted of eight counts of rape, 12 counts of gross indecency, seven counts of indecent assault and one count of grave and criminal assault.

DC Foord says the force is committing to investigating historical sexual abuse.

"This case highlights the very challenging circumstances faced by many victims who have been subjected to sexual abuse.

Although this was an historic event, the evidence was compelling and the victim was given reassurance that a thorough investigation would be conducted.

We are committed to investigating and prosecuting all sexual offences, no matter how long ago the offences occurred, and we want to assure victims that there are a number of agencies who are in a position to offer support and guidance through all stages of the criminal justice process.”

Kelly was arrested in April 2022 and charged in the September. He denied all the offences but was found guilty by a jury following an eight-day trial.

He will be sentenced later this year.

His victim has had special support from specialist officers and Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (IDSVAs) throughout the inquiry.

"The States of Jersey Police continue to work with key partners and advocacy services such as the SARC at Dewberry House, JAAR and the Jersey Women’s Refuge, to encourage victims of sexual crime to report such incidents."

There are several local agencies that offer advice and support:

• The SARC at Dewberry House provide expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. Call: 01534 888222.
• Jersey Domestic Abuse Support (JDAS) is an independent service developed to protect and support victims of domestic abuse, who are at risk of significant harm. Call: 01534 880505.
• Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Call: 01534 482801.
• Jersey Women’s Refuge offer help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Call: 0800 7356836
• Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Call 0800 7351612.
• The Safeguarding Partnership Board help agencies to work together to safeguard children and adults at risk. Reporting concerns about a child – call: 01534 519000, concerned about an adult – call 01534 444440.