Man, 69, jailed after sexually abusing two girls

A 69-year-old man who repeatedly sexually abused two young girls has been jailed for six years.

Michael Joynes, from Brockworth, near Gloucester, was sentenced on Friday at Gloucester Crown Court for abusing the girls aged under 13 between 2017 and 2019.

Joynes, who was on trial after pleading not guilty to all charges, was also issued restraining orders preventing him from contacting the two victims.

Acting Det Insp Jennifer Adams at Gloucestershire Police said described Joynes' crimes as "horrible".

The force launched an investigation after the two victims came forward several years following the abuse.

The jury found Joynes guilty of six of the sexual assault counts, not guilty of one of the counts and were unable to reach a decision on another count.

Adams said: "I would like to thank the victims for their bravery, courage and strength in reporting this to us and providing such clear accounts of what had happened.

"I know the sentence given today won't take away the horrific memories they now carry. However, I hope it does allow them to move on from the horrible crimes that Joynes subjected them to."

The judge also handed Joynes a 15-year sexual harm prevention order.

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