A "sadistic" paedophile from Stevenage has been jailed for sexually and physically abusing a young girl 25 years ago.

Kevin Johnson, of Canterbury Way, was sentenced to three-and-a-half years behind bars at St Albans Crown Court today (March 28), after being convicted of indecent assault on a child aged under 13 and child cruelty.

He must also abide by the terms of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years and be placed on the sex offenders' register.

The court heard that the now 62-year-old violently abused his young victim, including punching, kicking and burning her back.

He also sexually abused her by simulating sex with her on two occasions.

READ MORE: Teenager 'struck in face' after seven-person assault in Stevenage

In a personal statement, the victim said the abuse had led her to think about taking her of life, and caused her to have panic attacks and nightmares.

Recorder Sean O’Sullivan KC described Johnson as a "cruel man who had enjoyed terrorising the victim". 

"There was a degree of sadistic enjoyment by you. You made her feel like an animal - she had self harm and suicidal thoughts," he added.