The first picture of a dangerous pedophile who received an extended sentence for abuse

This is the first photo of a “dangerous” pedophile who was finally jailed for his historic sex crimes. Paul Whitehouse, from Darlaston, secretly abused four children over a 15-year period.

He sexually assaulted children as young as eight and attempted to rape one of his young victims. His sick crimes came to light decades later after his victims stepped forward and told police what he had done.

Whitehouse was arrested in February 2019 and stood trial for his crimes. Jurors convicted the 56-year-old of nine sex offenses in May following a trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

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The convict received an extended sentence of 28 years on July 22. It means he must serve at least two-thirds of his 24-year prison sentence before he is eligible for release by the Parole Board.

He will then be subject to an extended license period of four years. DC Mike Smith, from West Midlands Polie’s public protection unit, said: “This case highlights the importance of reporting sexual abuse, regardless of whether the crimes are recent.

“If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, please report it. We have a team of specialist officers to help and guide you through the legal process.

“We also work with a number of support groups who can offer advice. These five victims bravely came forward to speak to officers and I hope it will encourage other survivors of sexual abuse to do the same.”

Whitehouse was convicted of three counts of indecent assault, four counts of indecency with a child, one count of attempted rape and one count of criminal mischief that occurred between 1989 and 2004.

Read the full court story here.