Sick rapist jailed for over three decades for string of child sex offences
24.05.2022 - 15:03
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
A sick predator convicted of multiple rape offences against children as young as five has been told that he will serve more than three decades behind bars for his horrifying crimes.
Vile Michael Francis, 42, has been sentenced to 36 years behind bars for his string of crimes against children, which were described by one detective as being among the "most disturbing" that they had encountered.
France, from Skellow, was convicted of 14 charges against two victims, including 11 of rape, Hull Live reports.
His offending occurred across Yorkshire on two victims between the ages of five and 18.
They came to light in 2019 when one survivor bravely came forward, prompting a joint investigation between South Yorkshire and North Yorkshire Police which discovered a second victim.
France, of Sandyfields View, was jailed at Sheffield Crown Court after being found guilty of two charges of sexual assault of a child under 13 against the first victim, one charge of indecent assault, five counts of rape of an under-13 and six counts of rape against the second victim.
He will serve a minimum of 31 years in prison, before spending the remaining five years on licence.
One detective described France's offending as extremely disturbing and difficult to process. Police have now praised the bravery of both survivors, who were forced to relive their trauma through a trial as France refused to admit to his crimes.
“This case has been one of the most impactive and disturbing cases of sexual abuse that I have ever encountered," said Detective Sergeant David Adams, of North Yorkshire Police.
"I have great respect for the bravery of both of the victims in this case. They have been so strong and determined throughout investigation, trial and giving