A CHILD sex offender s victim spoke out after his sentencing to urge others to report similar crimes. Nicholas Hogan of Chiltern Road, Baldock, received a six-year prison term at Luton Crown Court on Monday and has been placed on the sex offenders regist

A CHILD sex offender's victim spoke out after his sentencing to urge others to report similar crimes.

Nicholas Hogan of Chiltern Road, Baldock, received a six-year prison term at Luton Crown Court on Monday and has been placed on the sex offenders' register for life.

The 45-year-old was found guilty on November 30 of four indecent assault offences and three of gross indecency with a child at an address in Letchworth GC between 2001 and 2004.

The victim said this week: "I was so scared about coming forward and reporting what happened to me, but I would say to anyone else who has been through the same thing, please report it.

"I was really worried I would not be believed or taken seriously, but this proves you will be.

"I hope it will inspire others who haven't told someone what has happened to speak to someone about it."

Detective inspector Martin Brace from the child abuse investigation unit said: "I would like to commend the bravery of the victim for seeing this case through to the end and I hope that today's sentence helps her to move on with her life.

"For Hertfordshire Constabulary, protecting children and other vulnerable people is a priority.

"I realise it can be hard for victims to come forward in these cases, but we would urge anyone who has been subject to abuse to contact us, we treat these matters with understanding and respect.

"We have specialist teams to deal with these crimes and we will continue to work with other law enforcement agencies to ensure offenders are brought to justice.