A Tameside man has been jailed for eight years for the rape of a child

Girmay Andes (28/08/1994) of Moorside Street in Droylsden was today jailed at Manchester Crown Court for eight years for the rape of a girl under the age of 16 and ordered to sign the Sex Offender's Register for life.

The court heard how Andes had approached the vulnerable girl in the Piccadilly area in the centre of Manchester, where he proceeded to isolate her from her friend and her persuade her to go back to his home – where the offence took place.

She was able to contact people she knew, who in turn informed the police. Andes then took the girl out of his property before the police arrived. They subsequently tracked her down a short distance away, where she told officers the ordeal she had been through.

Andes was arrested a short time later.

Girmay Andes - jailed for 8 years

Detective Constable Mike Allen, of GMP's Tameside district Complex Safeguarding Team, said: "I would like to thank the victim for finding the strength to report this matter and attend the Court process, ensuring this sexual predator has been removed from the streets of Manchester and jailed.

“Sexual offences have a long-lasting impact on victims and Greater Manchester Police are committed to preventing this harm. I would, therefore, like to use this opportunity to encourage anyone who has been a victim of such offences to come forward.

“You will be believed and you will be supported throughout every stage of the process, to bring offenders to justice and prevent them from harming anyone else. We work with a number of specialist partner agencies, so you will never be on your own.

"I also hope this result warns offenders that this behaviour will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester and that authorities here are committed to ensuring they are convicted to the full extent of the law – by sending convicted sex offenders to prison and monitoring them for life.”

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.