A Port Alberni man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison after being convicted of multiple offences against minors.

Shaun Pater was found guilty of several charges, including one count of sexual interference involving a child under 14, two counts of sexual interference involving children under 16, and one count of sexual assault.

According to Port Alberni RCMP, Pater has a lengthy history of convictions for similar offences dating back to at least 2004.

Police said the historical investigation, which involved offences spanning several years, required an exceptional level of dedication and investigative work.

“The care, sensitivity and professionalism demonstrated by Port Alberni RCMP investigators throughout these complex proceedings are truly commendable,” Insp. Kim Bruce, officer in charge of the Port Alberni RCMP detachment, said in a statement.

A publication ban remains in place to protect the identities of the victims, who were minors at the time of the offences.