CRAIG SHORT FROM PAIGNTON SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN

A severe offender from Paignton has received an 18-year prison sentence for sexually abusing two children. Craig Short, aged 53, used gifts to groom and establish trust with a vulnerable boy and girl before committing multiple sexual offences. The court heard that Short's crimes included exposing himself to a six-year-old girl and performing masturbation on a boy under the age of 13. Short pleaded guilty on the first day of a scheduled trial to 15 charges, which comprised indecency with a child, encouraging a child to watch a sexual act, inciting a child to participate in sexual activity, and other sexual assaults involving a child.

The offences were first brought to police attention in 2013 after the boy disclosed Short's behaviour, but no immediate action was taken. The case was reopened in 2021 when the girl came forward, revealing that she had also been abused by Short. It was reported in court that the abuse took place in various locations, including Short's van, and that he showed the boy pornographic material while warning him not to tell anyone in order to avoid being labeled a paedophile.

Prosecutor Josh Ticehurst described the case as a deliberate attempt by Short to normalise his sexual crimes.

Short was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with an additional six years on license following his release, and a sexual harm prevention order was issued. During police interviews, Short initially denied any wrongdoing but later admitted guilt.

Investigating officer DC Rachael Delaney praised the victims for their bravery and stated, "Thanks to the strength and courage of the victims Craig Short has now been brought to justice for his crimes. This case demonstrates that it is never too late to come forward and report sexual abuse, and that we will continue to thoroughly investigate all matters reported to us."