EDWARD CHARLTON'S SHOCKING REIGN OF TERROR IN SUNDERLAND AND WALLSEND: SEX OFFENDER STRIKES AGAIN AT TYNESIDE TIP

In July 2011, a disturbing incident unfolded at a recycling facility in South Tyneside, where a 21-year-old man became the latest victim of Edward Charlton, a notorious sex offender with a long history of predatory behavior. Charlton, aged 72, who has been known to authorities since the late 1960s, was caught in the act after targeting the young man at the South Tyneside Recycling Village, a site often frequented by locals for waste disposal and recycling activities.

According to reports, Charlton approached the unsuspecting victim and proceeded to grab him, attempting to kiss him twice in a manner that left the young man visibly shocked and deeply embarrassed. The incident was further compounded by Charlton’s repeated assertions that he was not gay, a comment that added to the confusion and distress experienced by the victim. Prosecutor Andy Rutter described the scene, emphasizing the inappropriate and aggressive nature of Charlton’s conduct during the encounter.

Police were alerted to the incident after Charlton left behind documents bearing his name at the site, which led to his swift identification and subsequent arrest. The authorities confirmed that Charlton, who resides on Edward Burdis Road in Sunderland, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. His arrest marked yet another chapter in a criminal career that spans over four decades, during which he accumulated a total of 39 convictions for 74 separate offenses, including eight sexual offenses dating back to 1969.

Historically, Charlton’s criminal activities have been extensive and troubling. In 2002, he was forced to flee his home in Wallsend after being exposed as a serial sex offender. Northumbria Police successfully petitioned for him to be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register, a legal measure that aimed to monitor and restrict his movements. The court heard how Charlton had persistently harassed vulnerable women and cruised the streets in an Audi, attempting to lure young people into his vehicle. These actions prompted authorities to impose strict restrictions on his activities.

During a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, Judge Guy Whitburn sentenced Charlton to a three-year Community Order. The judge expressed his concern over Charlton’s age and extensive criminal history, which dates back many years. He condemned Charlton’s recent behavior towards the young victim, noting that the victim was too embarrassed to testify publicly. The judge described how Charlton had grabbed the young man and tried to kiss him, actions that caused significant upset and distress.

In addition to the Community Order, Charlton was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register and participate in sex offender group work programs. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to monitor and control individuals with a history of sexual offenses, especially those like Charlton who have demonstrated a pattern of predatory behavior over many decades. His criminal record, which includes a series of convictions from the late 1960s onward, highlights the persistent challenge faced by authorities in managing repeat offenders and protecting the community from potential harm.