POLICE and prosecutors have spoken of the difficulties they faced in ensuring justice for Katie Rough.

Det Chief Inspector Andrea Kell, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “This investigation has been one of the most tragic, and challenging, I have ever dealt with during my career as a police officer. There are no positive results from cases such as these.

“Regardless of the conviction and sentence, nothing will ever replace the loss of Katie . The lives of Paul and Alison Rough, and their wider family, have changed forever as a result of the devastating events which happened on Monday, January 9, 2017. I hope today’s conclusion of the court proceedings, will allow the family to now focus on trying to re-build their lives.

“I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the emergency services personnel and all those who responded the night of Katie’s death."

She added: “I would also like to recognise and praise the dedication and professionalism of the investigation team, who were faced with aspects of the investigation which were deeply distressing for all. Our thoughts remain with Katie’s parents and the entire Rough family.”

Deputy chief crown prosecutor for Yorkshire and Humberside Elizabeth Jenkins said: “This was an appalling crime which has caused Katie’s family unimaginable grief.

“The defendant pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Katie on the grounds of diminished responsibility and we accepted that plea after very careful consideration of the psychiatric reports.

“Our thoughts remain with Katie’s family as they have been throughout.”