The victim of "predator" Gary Thompson has waived her right to anonymity to speak out against the abuse she faced when she was 15 years old.
Nikella Holmes encouraged others to report abuse after thanking the PSNI for supporting her during the "difficult process".
56-year-old Thompson, who was the former head of the NI Fire and Rescue Service, was jailed on December 12 for sexual offences against an underage girl between June and November 2006.
Read more: Ex Fire Service chief jailed for sex assaults on 15-year-old girl
He has been sentenced for two counts of indecent assault against Nikella, now 33 years old, who was only 15 years old at the time of the abuse.
Thompson was jailed at Belfast Crown Court for eight months and probation for 15 months thereafter. He will also be subject to a five-year Sexual Offences Protection Order and will be on the sex offenders register for ten years.
Detective Chief Inspector Claire McGarvey said that Thompson was in a "position of trust" over Nikella when they met through a community church in 2004.
Speaking out today, Nikella Holmes released a statement saying: “I would like to thank the PSNI for their tremendous work throughout this lengthy and challenging process.
"From the moment I reported via 101 I knew I would be treated with respect and care. I was believed and supported, throughout a difficult process by my investigating officer.
“Predators must face the consequences of their actions as my abuser has done today. I would encourage anyone who has gone through abuse to report if they wish to do so. There is support for you”
Detective Chief Inspector McGarvey said: “Thompson was in a position of trust in the community and held in high regard. He took advantage of a 15 year old child who he manipulated and believed he was in a ‘relationship’ with.
“Nikella met Thompson through a Community Church in November 2004.
"He began communicating with her over text to build a rapport which we would classify as grooming, before encouraging in person meet ups in 2006 when the indecent assaults took place in his car.
"He preyed on her and thought he would get away with it through manipulation. He was wrong. I’d like to praise Nikella who has shown immense bravery and courage in supporting the investigation.
“We will continue to work around the clock to bring child predators before the courts and would encourage anyone who may have been abused in a similar way to come forward. The passage of time doesn’t matter.
“Child abuse cannot continue in Northern Ireland, we will do everything in our power to stop predators in their tracks and get victims the justice they deserve.”
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