ALAN BROWN FROM PETERLEE SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ABUSE IN DURHAM

In a case that has shocked the local community of Peterlee, County Durham, Alan Brown, a 41-year-old man, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of eight years after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The conviction followed a trial at Durham Crown Court, where Brown was convicted on 11 counts, including four charges of rape, four counts of indecent assault, and three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor.

These offenses spanned a period of approximately two years, concluding in October of the previous year. During this time, the victim, who was between the ages of 12 and 14, endured repeated sexual abuse at the hands of Brown. The court was informed that Brown’s actions were so frequent and invasive that the girl later described her experience as “normal,” a testament to the extent of her trauma. She eventually participated in the abusive acts without being prompted, which further underscored the disturbing nature of the case.

Legal proceedings revealed that despite her participation, the law clearly states that a girl of her age cannot legally consent to such acts. The court heard that Brown, who works as a plumber and gas fitter, residing at Doniston Grove in Peterlee, had denied all charges, claiming innocence. He insisted during the trial that he had never engaged in any sexual contact or intimate acts with the girl. However, after a jury deliberated for just 90 minutes on the third day of the trial, Brown was convicted of all charges.

The victim’s distress was evident during the proceedings. She confided in a school friend after suffering physical injuries from one of the assaults and later disclosed the abuse to her parents when questioned about her relationship with a boy. Brown’s behavior and the allegations painted a disturbing picture of exploitation and abuse.

Following the verdict, defense lawyer Don MacFaul expressed a somber reflection, stating, “Everyone involved in this case is now left to pick up the pieces.” He also noted that Brown’s record was free of similar offenses and emphasized that no force was used during the incidents. Despite these points, Judge Richard Lowden sentenced Brown to eight years in prison, emphasizing the lasting impact of his actions. The judge remarked that the victim had documented in her diary how Brown had “taken away her innocence,” a violation that would leave emotional scars for the rest of her life. The case has left a lasting mark on the community of Peterlee, highlighting the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from such predatory behavior.