A Sunderland paedophile has been jailed for almost three years after being convicted of sexual activity with a child.

Adam Leddra sexually assaulted the schoolgirl more than a decade ago. The girl later disclosed the offending, and a report was made to police.

The now 32-year-old, who has previously been jailed for child sex offences, was arrested and interviewed by officers.

In September, Leddra, of Rothley, Fatfield, Washington, admitted two charges of sexual activity with a child and two of causing a child to engage in sexual activity.

He has now been sentenced to 33 months in prison and will spend the rest of his life on the Sex Offenders’ Register. Leddra was also handed a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a restraining order to protect the victim.

The investigation was led by Detective Constable Amy Burridge, of Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department.

Following the sentencing DC Burridge said: “I would like to praise the survivor in this case for the courage and composure she has shown through this difficult process.

“It is thanks to her bravery in disclosing what happened to police that a dangerous offender is back behind bars.

“I hope this conviction serves as a stark warning to those who think they can take advantage of children – we won’t tolerate this type of behaviour and there are serious and lifelong consequences.

“No one should ever have to endure this type of assault and support is available from our officers and support organisations we work with every day.

“If you have ever been a victim of any type of sexual abuse, we’re here for you.”

Anyone who has been the victim of any form of sexual abuse – whether recent or non-recent – is urged to contact Northumbria Police using the ‘report’ page on their website, the live chat function on the website, or by sending a direct message on social media.

You can also call 101.