Daniel Fitzgerald sexually abused two children, including one with a severe disability

A labourer has been locked up for his “despicable lust" after he  sexually abused two children including one who was severely disabled and non-verbal.

A “monster” who preyed on two children robbing them of their childhood and innocence will be behind bars for at least the next four years.

Daniel Joseph Fitzgerald, 66, preyed on two vulnerable young girls and abused them for his own devious interests.

The Adelaide District Court on Wednesday heard Fitzgerald caused the children to perform sexual acts on him in the other’s presence.

"(The older victim) is unable to speak due to a severe physical and intellectual disability," Judge Paul Cuthbertson said during sentencing.

"I've seen her in the interview, the disability is profound."

The court heard the offending only stopped once the younger victim told her mother and it was reported to police.

A victim impact statement written by the victim’s father was read to the court in April, saying Fitzgerald was an animal who would go to any lengths to satisfy his “despicable lust”.

“I am angry, disappointed and downright disgusted that Mr Fitzgerald … has stooped to the despicable levels of performing sexual abuse of such heinous nature towards such young and vulnerable children,” he wrote.

“He had robbed them of their childhood and innocence.

“No child should have to ever go through what these children have had to and a monster like Mr Fitzgerald should never be allowed around children.”

Daniel Fitzgerald was jailed for six years for sexually abusing two children. Photo: File

The Windsor Gardens father pleaded guilty to maintaining sexual relationships with two children.

The court heard Fitzgerald, who had a traumatic upbringing, had previously worked in labouring roles and as a taxi driver.

Judge Cuthbertson sentenced Fitzgerald to six years jail, with a non-parole period of four years.

"The vulnerability of the children cannot be underestimated," he said.

"The defendant preyed upon young children, one of whom is severely disabled ... making that child more vulnerable and the offending more serious."

The sentence was backdated to February 17, 2021.