CHRISTOPHER DEAKIN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN SMETHWICK

In a recent court ruling at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Christopher Deakin, a 32-year-old man from Cemetery Road, Smethwick, was handed a sentence of one year in prison after being convicted of a sexual assault involving a schoolgirl. The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the offense and the defendant's conduct during the trial.

Judge Nicholas Webb addressed Deakin directly, criticizing his failure to accept responsibility for his actions. The judge pointed out that Deakin lacked the courage to admit his guilt, which resulted in the young victim being compelled to testify in court. This situation led to the distressing circumstance where the girl, despite her innocence, was accused of lying, a burden that Judge Webb described as a grave injustice. The judge emphasized that the true victim in this case was the young girl, who suffered both emotionally and psychologically from the assault and the subsequent legal proceedings.

Deakin's refusal to confront his wrongdoing was a focal point of the judge's remarks. The court heard that he denied the charges of indecent assault, yet the jury found him guilty after deliberation. The judge highlighted the profound and lasting impact the assault had on the girl, noting the emotional scars and trauma inflicted upon her. In addition to the prison sentence, Deakin was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years. He was also barred from working with children, a restriction aimed at preventing any future harm.

Furthermore, Deakin was mandated to participate in a sex offenders' rehabilitation program, intended to address underlying issues and prevent recidivism. The court's decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and the importance of holding offenders accountable. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects that sexual crimes can have on victims and the ongoing need for justice and protective measures within the community of Smethwick and beyond.