A PAEDOPHILE who raped children has been jailed for 16 years.

Daniel Dowson, 31, of Picasso Way, Shoebury, was convicted of 12 sexual offences including six counts of raping children aged under 13 years of age.

He was unanimously convicted of 12 out of the 14 counts by the jury following three days of deliberations at Basildon Crown Court this week.

These included two counts of indecent assault, four counts of assaulting a child under 13 by penetration and six counts of raping a child under 13.

A victim impact statement given to the Echo stated: “It has haunted the girls’ lives.

“They have ended up with behaviour problems and anger issues.

“They lived in fear of what he might do and the shame of it as they grew up and realised what had been happening to them.”

An NSPCC spokesman said: “The incredibly brave victims of this vile abuse have helped put a dangerous sexual predator behind bars. 

“The seriousness of Dowson’s serial offending is reflected in the jail term.

“It’s vital all victims of abuse know that it is never their fault and they are listened to and supported when they feel able to speak out.”

Survivors of abuse can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000.

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.