'Sadistic' man convicted of child rape

A "perverted and sadistic" man who sexually abused a child has been convicted of rape.

Humberside Police said Connor Laud subjected an "innocent and helpless child to what can only be described as sickening abuse to fulfil his sexual desires".

The 27-year-old, of Tenterden Close, Hull, denied four charges but was found guilty on 15 May of all four offences following a trial at Grimsby Crown Court.

He has been remanded into custody until 19 June, when he is due to appear at the same court for sentencing.

Police launched their inquiries after receiving a report of the abuse, which had been disclosed by the child.

Following his arrest, Laud claimed the child "must have become confused" and he denied having a sexual interest in children, detectives said.

He pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape and two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Det Con Gayle Allwood described the offender as "a perverted and sadistic man".

She added: "I'd like to praise the child and their family for their sheer bravery.

"I cannot begin to comprehend how they have felt throughout the entirety of this investigation and court proceedings."

She urged other victims of sexual crimes to report them to police.

"We take reports of sexual offences extremely seriously and we will continue to seek justice for those who have suffered at the hands of predators," she added.

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