MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, Debbie Abrahams, has said the "deplorable" actions of former police officer Dean Dempster have left her "shocked and appalled".
Ms Abrahams shared her reaction following the sentencing of the former Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer who was serving in Oldham.
On Wednesday (November 13), Dempster was jailed for at least nine years for sexually assaulting a young girl while on duty.
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In her statement, Ms Abrahams said: "I am shocked and appalled at the crimes committed by this former Oldham police officer.
"The main offence took place in the course of his duties while he was in a position of trust and authority which makes this case - if possible - even more deplorable."
Ms Abrahams said she was "at least encouraged" that the sentencing had gone "some way to give this little girl and her family the justice they deserve".
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She continues to support GMP following the case.
She added: "I note the information and reassurances from GMP which indicate that they acted immediately and appropriately to ensure the perpetrator did not spend another moment serving as a police officer in Oldham, or anywhere else, after GMP became aware of this serious offence.
"In addition, it is clear that swift action was taken to ensure that he was dismissed following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. He is now barred for life from ever being employed in policing again.
"This is important in maintaining trust and confidence in our police service.
"This individual's reprehensible crimes are in no way reflective of the committed and tenacious officers serving our communities in Oldham who continue to have my full support.
"We must resolve to redouble our efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls, and bring those who perpetrate these crimes to justice."
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