ANDREW BULLOCK FROM SNEYD GREEN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF BOYS IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In April 2017, a man from Sneyd Green, Andrew Bullock, was sentenced to serve a significant prison term after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young boys. The case, which was heard at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, revealed disturbing details about Bullock's predatory behavior and the manipulative tactics he employed to exploit his victims.

Andrew Bullock, aged 54 and residing on Norton Drive in Sneyd Green, was convicted of multiple serious offenses related to the sexual exploitation of minors. The court heard that Bullock had groomed the boys, who were of school age, by offering them alcohol or drugs, thereby impairing their judgment and making them more susceptible to his advances. Following this grooming process, he indecently assaulted the children, actions that have left lasting scars on their lives.

During the proceedings, the prosecution, led by Thomas Schofield, emphasized that the severity of Bullock's crimes was compounded by the use of intoxicants and the significant age gap between the offender and his victims. The court was informed that Bullock pleaded guilty to four counts of indecent assault on a child, as well as an additional charge of attempted indecent assault on a child, on the fifth day of his trial. This plea came after one of the victims had already been cross-examined, highlighting the gravity of the case.

Judge David Fletcher, presiding over the case, sentenced Bullock to six years and seven months in prison. He also made it clear that Bullock would be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. In his remarks, Judge Fletcher described the disturbing nature of the offenses, noting that Bullock was aware that one of his victims was being exploited by a group of males. The judge detailed how the young boy, who was tasked with making tea and running errands, was spiraling into a troubled life, frequently skipping school and associating with men who were using him for their own gratification.

The judge further explained that the assaults on the first victim occurred over a short period and were made worse by the administration of substances that rendered the boy more compliant. Both victims have been profoundly affected by Bullock’s actions. The second victim, in particular, has been impacted for the rest of his life, as evidenced by a heartfelt statement read aloud in court, describing the enduring trauma caused by the abuse.

Judge Fletcher concluded by dismissing any claims that Bullock had no interest in young children, stating that such a belief was delusional. The court made it clear that Bullock’s actions demonstrated a clear pattern of predatory behavior, and his remorse or lack thereof would not mitigate the seriousness of his crimes. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who exploit vulnerable children and the importance of vigilant safeguarding measures in the community.