A disgusting sex beast who raped a young child and sexually abused four others has been jailed for eight years.
Michael Taylor earlier pleaded guilty to carrying out a string of sickening attacks before appearing at the High Court in Edinburgh on Friday for sentencing.
The 71-year-old, who was also convicted of possessing indecent images of children, told investigating police officers that he became ‘overly friendly’ with two of the kids.
He denied forcing himself on any of the children, who were aged between six and 11, and said that “if anything, they liked it”.
Taylor, a part-time delivery driver, targeted the youngsters in Aberdeen between March and October last year.
One brave victim later told their father what had been happening which sparked a major police investigation into Taylor’s vile crimes.
Officers have today welcomed his prison sentence and have hailed the children for their outstanding courage.
Detective Inspector Karen Main of North East Division’s Public Protection Unit said: “Michael Taylor is a sexual predator who preyed on vulnerable young children, manipulated and abused them.
“He exploited these defenceless young children for his own sexual gratification.
“Despite the appalling ordeal he subjected these children to, they have had the immense courage to speak out about what happened to them and their information has been vital to investigating this case.
“I would like to thank them for their bravery and courage. Their information was crucial to ensure that Taylor is prevented from preying on other young children.
“My thoughts remain with the victims and their families.
“I sincerely hope that today’s sentencing can bring them some solace in that the person responsible for these despicable actions has been held to account and now they can move forward with their lives.
“We are resolutely committed to supporting victims of sexual crimes and bringing those responsible to justice.
“We would urge anyone who wishes to report any sexual crime or child protection concern to come forward.
“They can be assured of being fully supported by officers and our partner agencies.
“I would like to thank the team of officers who worked on this investigation for their dedication and commitment to this sensitive enquiry.”
