EDWARD CASON SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS IN N NORTHAMPTON FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

A man from Northampton, Edward Cason, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 14 years after being convicted of multiple counts of child sexual abuse that occurred over two decades ago. The case came to light following a courageous report from a woman who, as a child, endured repeated sexual assaults by Cason during the mid to late 1990s.

In July 2020, the survivor, now an adult woman, approached Northamptonshire Police to disclose the abuse she suffered at the hands of Cason. Her detailed account prompted an immediate investigation by the Northamptonshire Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) West. The inquiry uncovered disturbing details about Cason, who was in his 30s at the time and was living with a partner. According to the evidence, Cason had deliberately befriended the young girl, creating a false sense of a genuine relationship. He manipulated her emotions, making her believe they were romantically involved, which ultimately led to her breaking off contact due to his possessive and controlling behavior, as well as his disregard for her feelings.

The offences took place between 1995 and 1998, and Cason was subsequently charged with multiple counts of indecent assault on a female under 16, under the provisions of the Sexual Offences Act 1956. The case was brought before Northampton Crown Court, where Cason faced a trial. On February 14 of this year, he was found guilty on all 12 counts, confirming the severity of his actions.

Following his conviction, Cason appeared again at Northampton Crown Court on May 30 for sentencing. The court handed down a substantial sentence of 14 years in prison, with a minimum term of nine years before he could be considered for parole. Additionally, Cason was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order, aimed at protecting the survivor and preventing any further contact.

Detective Constable Alex Steele, who led the investigation, expressed his support for the survivor, emphasizing her bravery in coming forward. He stated, “I am so pleased for the survivor, whose bravery in reporting Edward Cason has resulted in him being recognised as a sexual predator and rightly jailed for a significant period. It took her many years to acknowledge that Cason’s behaviour was abuse, pure and simple, and that any guilt or shame lay squarely with him.”

He further highlighted how Cason exploited the vulnerabilities of a young girl, taking advantage of her age and family circumstances. Cason’s manipulative tactics included presenting himself as a sympathetic figure, which allowed him to repeatedly commit these heinous acts.

The officer also noted the importance of public awareness, stating, “She has asked for this case to be publicised to show others who may have suffered non-recent sexual abuse that justice is possible, and I hope this outcome demonstrates that the passage of time is not a barrier to holding abusers to account.”

Throughout the investigation, the survivor demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience. Detective Steele concluded by thanking her for her trust and cooperation, adding, “She deserves every future happiness.”

This report, along with a custody image, has been released with the survivor’s consent, who retains the right to lifelong anonymity, underscoring the sensitive nature of this case.