A POLICE officer was yesterday jailed for 26 years for 20 offences including the rape and sexual assault of a child.

       Stephen Hardy, 46, used his teenage victim as a “puppet or sex object”, a judge said during his sentencing.

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       Police officer Stephen Hardy, 46, was yesterday jailed for 26 years for 20 offences including the rape and sexual assault of a child Credit: PA

       The detective constable with Greater Manchester Police was found guilty at Liverpool crown court.

       Laura Nash, for Hardy, of Mottram, Gtr Manchester, said he continued to deny all the offences.

       The Liverpool Crown Court heard how Hardy's sick abuse unfolded between December 2012 and June 2020.

       Jo Palmiero, senior crown prosecutor for CPS North West's rape and serious sexual abuse unit, said:

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       "Stephen Hardy gained the trust of the child before subjecting them to sickening sexual abuse, with no thought for the lasting damage his abuse would cause.

       "Hardy was a police officer, in a position of trust, who manipulated and controlled his victim.

       "I would like to commend the victim for reporting the abuse and supporting the prosecution."

       Following Hardy’s conviction in July, GMP said he was suspended from duty and would face disciplinary proceedings.

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