Paedophile who considered himself 'untouchable' finally jailed after 50 years

A paedophile who considered himself “untouchable” has been jailed more than 50 years after he started abusing children.

Terrence Ryan, 77, sexually assaulted a young boy in the early 1960s and would abuse three more children in the 2000s.

He came to the attention of authorities after one of his victims contacted Northumbria Police, which led to an investigation by the force’s safeguarding unit.

Ryan, from Warrington, was jailed for 14 years and eight months at Newcastle Crown Court on 13 August after admitting 14 counts of historical child sexual abuse.

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Ryan initially denied the allegations when he was arrested but later admitted the charges.

Lead investigator Detective Sergeant Andrea Burns praised the bravery of the victims for speaking out.

She said: "This man thought he was untouchable and continued to abuse young boys for more than 50 years.

“My heart goes out to the brave victims who have suffered in silence for so long, and I hope the sentencing of Ryan gives them all a sense of solace and closure.

“Their courage, strength and determination for Ryan to be brought to justice has been utterly commendable.

“Some of these offences were committed in the early 1960s, yet we have still been able to seek justice for the victims.

“No-one deserves to suffer the way these victims have so please, if you have been a victim of abuse, speak out.

“We are here to help.”