A MAN guilty of child sex offences has been sentenced to 14 years in jail.

James Tower from Crawley admitted 17 sex offences against a girl under 13.

The 30-year-old began abusing the girl in 2016.

He was only caught when the girl's mother became suspicious and challenged him in June.

Tower was arrested and charged with sexual offences against a child.

He admitted the offences and was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court to 14 years in prison.

Detective Constable Jake Dallaway, of Sussex Police’s Safeguarding Investigation Unit, who led the investigation, said: “Tower subjected his victim to several years of abuse, ruining her childhood for the sake of his own gratification.

“I hope the sentence will provide some closure to the victim and her family, and I hope, with the appropriate support, they can move on from this horrific abuse.

“I’d like to commend the victim and her mother for their bravery in coming forward and the support they have given us throughout what has been a very difficult time for them.

“I also hope that this outcome gives other people who have been or are suffering similar abuse the confidence to come forward. You can read our advice on how to do this here.”