COLIN CRABTREE JAILED FOR EIGHT YEARS IN STOKE-ON-TRENT FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Stoke-on-Trent, Colin Crabtree, a 52-year-old man from Norris Road, Stanfield, has been sentenced to eight years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a schoolgirl during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Crabtree's heinous actions came to light after the victim, now an adult woman, bravely came forward to recount the profound and lasting impact of the abuse she endured. During her testimony at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, she described feeling 'completely shattered' by the trauma, which has led her to struggle with issues such as alcohol dependency and self-harm. Her emotional statement revealed the deep scars left by Crabtree's misconduct and the ongoing battle she faces in her recovery.

Initially, Crabtree denied the charges brought against him, attempting to contest the allegations. However, as the trial date approached, he chose to plead guilty, acknowledging his guilt in the matter. Prosecutor Benjamin Lawrence detailed the nature of the abuse, stating, 'He put his hands under the victim’s clothing and sexually touched her. The offending has clearly had a significant impact on the victim.' The court was also informed that Crabtree had a prior conviction in 2006, when he received a caution for possessing indecent photographs of a child, raising concerns about his history of inappropriate behavior.

During the court proceedings, the victim read a heartfelt statement, her voice trembling as she described the devastating effects of Crabtree’s actions. She said, 'It left me completely broken, with no confidence, low self-esteem and no self-respect. I believed I was the cause of the abuse, that I deserved it.' Her words underscored the profound psychological damage inflicted upon her.

Judge Paul Glenn, presiding over the case, sentenced Crabtree to a total of eight years in prison. In his remarks, the judge referenced a transcript of the victim’s video interview, highlighting her graphic account of her feelings during the abuse. Judge Glenn emphasized the lasting impact of Crabtree’s actions, stating, 'Your actions have had a profound effect on her. She has shown immense courage, and that’s more than can be said for you.'

Furthermore, the judge imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will restrict Crabtree’s contact with girls under the age of 16, aiming to prevent any future harm. The order reflects the court’s concern for safeguarding vulnerable minors and underscores the seriousness of Crabtree’s offenses in the Stoke-on-Trent area.