A COLCHESTER man has been convicted of ten offences of sexually abusing three girls following a police investigation launched nearly eight years ago.

Stephen Richard Gallagher, 58, of Normandy Avenue, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court where he was found guilty of ten sexual offences, including three counts of raping a girl.

The investigation into Gallagher was launched in September 2016, when Essex Police received a report from a young girl that she had been sexually abused.

Alongside the child abuse investigation team, a "complex investigation” was launched, with two other victims coming forward to report other offences.

Gallagher was arrested in October 2016 and later charged with two counts of rape, three counts of rape against a child, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, four counts of indecent assault, two counts of sexual activity with a child, and one count of sexual assault.

The offences took place when the victims were between the ages of 10 and 19.

Gazette: Investigation - The investigation took nearly 8 years and the trial was postponed twice before taking place due to various reasons Investigation - The investigation took nearly 8 years and the trial was postponed twice before taking place due to various reasons (Image: Essex Police)

Gallagher was found guilty of 10 offences following a two-week trial at Ipswich Crown Court.

Det Sgt Carol Astbury said: “The three victims demonstrated extreme strength and tenacity throughout a long and complex investigation, ensuring that Gallagher has finally been held accountable for his despicable crimes.

“For various reasons, the trial was postponed twice before taking place and I would like to thank the victims for their strength and patience.

“All victims were between the ages of 10 and 19 at the time they were abused by Gallagher, and I hope that this conviction allows them to start to move forward."

Det Sgt Astbury praised Det Sgt Colin Parker, who led the investigation prior to his retirement, adding: “Det Sgt Parker made the effort to attend the court during the trial due to his commitment to the victims in this case.

“The victims have since thanked him, saying they would not have been able to continue with this lengthy investigation and court process without him.”

Gallagher is due to appear for sentencing at the same court on July 29.

Synergy Essex provides specialist support for victims and survivors of rape and sexual abuse across Essex, Thurrock and Southend.