A “predatory sex offender” from Harpenden who raped three teenage girls has been jailed for 10 years.

Oscar Abernethy-Cortez, 24, of Bramble Close, was sentenced on Friday after being found guilty of four charges of rape in May.

Two of the rapes were historic, occurring in 2008-09 on a girl under the age of 16.

However the two most recent rape offences occurred between August and November last year on two girls aged 17 and 18.

This was shortly after he had been released from prison for previous sexual offences he had committed.

Detective Constable John Wilden, of Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: “Abernethy-Cortez is a predatory sex offender who targeted vulnerable teenagers before raping them. 

“He was released from prison in August but by November we had received intelligence that he was committing further sexual offences.

“We moved swiftly to investigate Abernethy-Cortez’s activities, bring charges against him and recall him to prison so he could not commit further offences.

“I would like to pay tribute to Abernethy-Cortez’s victims. Without their courage and bravery, he would not now be behind bars and I am certain would be targeting other young and vulnerable girls for sex.”

Abernethy-Cortez was given a 15-year sentence at Luton Crown Court on Friday, and will have to serve a minimum of 10 years in prison and five years on licence.

Anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact Herts SARC for practical and emotional support.

The centre can arrange face-to-face support, sexual health referrals, and provide forensic medical examinations for those who want them.

To contact Herts SARC, call the 24/7 helpline on 0808 178 4448, email Herts.SARC@nhs.net or visit the Herts SARC website.