Leeds child rapist brought to justice more than a decade after sexually abusing two youngsters

Steven Bladen was aged between 16 and 19 when he abused the children, who were both under the age of 10.

The 28-year-old was jailed for six years and nine months after pleading guilty to raping a girl under the age of 13, attempting to rape a girl under the age of 13 and sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13.

Leeds Crown Court heard the offending took place between 2009 and 2011.

Matthew Bean, prosecuting, said the children were abused separately and Bladen would first isolate them in a bedroom.

Mr Bean said there was also an element of grooming behaviour in the offending.

The victims were both teenagers by the time they reported the abuse to police.

Read more: Mum torched Christmas tree in arson attack on her family home in Seacroft after dispute with landlordNo victim personal statements were provided in the case.

Gillian Batts, mitigating, said Bladen wished to apologise publicly to both of his victims.

One of the victims attended court to watch her abuser being jailed.

Judge Simon Batiste praised her courage in attending court, adding: "I wish you all the best for the future."