A pervert has been given a 17-year extended sentence - after admitting abusing children.

As Antonio De Jesus Saleiro, 55, was led away to the cells, a member of the public shouted: "Paedo scum".

Prosecutor Nina Ellin told Maidstone Crown Court how when he was challenged by police, he replied: "OK, I am here to pay for my crime"!"

Saleiro, of Old Tovil Road, Maidstone, had admitted 12 sex offences involving two children. He received an immediate 12-year jail term and the judge ordered a five-year extension to his licence period if and when he is finally released.

Ms Ellin said that the day after the confrontation, he was seen using his computer to book flights to Portugal.

"The police were contacted and he was arrested at the departure gate at Gatwick airport, " she added.

The hearing was translated into Portuguese and he refused to look at the public gallery.

After he was led away to the cells, Judge David Griffith-Jones QC praised the victim's family for showing such "grace".

The judge then wished the victims "all the very best as they moved forward" in their lives.

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