ERNEST CALLAGHAN SENTENCED TO OVER 20 YEARS FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL OFFENCES IN MIDDLESBROUGH

A man named Ernest Callaghan has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of multiple historic sexual offences committed against young boys in Middlesbrough. The disturbing case spans over a period of more than 15 years, from 1978 to 1994, during which Callaghan, now 78 years old, engaged in repeated acts of sexual assault against vulnerable victims.

These heinous acts included numerous instances of sexual abuse, with some of the assaults involving buggery, a serious and illegal form of sexual activity. The victims, who were minors at the time, endured these traumatic experiences in silence for many years, with the full extent of the abuse only coming to light decades later.

The case was reopened in 2023 when one of the victims, demonstrating remarkable courage, contacted Durham Constabulary to report the abuse he had suffered at the hands of Callaghan. Recognising the importance of safeguarding, the police assigned a dedicated team to handle the case. The team promptly reached out to the victim to gather his account of the events, ensuring that his voice was heard after so many years of silence.

Following the initial interview, law enforcement officers moved swiftly to arrest Callaghan. During police interviews, he categorically denied the allegations, asserting his innocence. Despite his denials, investigators continued their inquiries and identified a second victim who also bravely came forward to share his own account of abuse.

Callaghan was subsequently re-arrested and subjected to a second round of questioning. Once again, he denied all allegations, attempting to dismiss the accusations as false. However, the police officers involved saw through his attempts to deceive and built a case based on the evidence and testimonies provided.

Ultimately, Callaghan was charged with seven counts of indecent assault on a boy and three counts of buggery on a boy without consent. His trial took place at Teesside Crown Court, where he was found guilty of all ten charges earlier this year. The court's decision resulted in a significant prison sentence of 22 years, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

In addition to his imprisonment, Callaghan was ordered to be placed on the sexual offenders register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions. Given his age, he is expected to serve the full term, with parole eligibility not anticipated until he reaches the age of 93.

Safeguarding Investigative Officer Karl Hopps expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “I am pleased that Callaghan has finally been brought to justice for these horrific offences. He stole the victims’ childhoods and continued with his normal life for years. Now, he will spend the rest of his life behind bars, and the boys who are now men can begin to move forward.”

He also paid tribute to the dedication of Investigative Officer Katie Field, who worked tirelessly for over two years to support the victims, maintain their trust, and help them find the strength to testify. “Without her tenacity and the bravery of the victims, this case might have fallen apart,” Hopps added.

The officer concluded with a message of reassurance, encouraging survivors of abuse to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed. He emphasized that law enforcement agencies remain committed to listening and providing support. People who have experienced sexual abuse are urged to contact Durham Constabulary at 101 or call 999 in emergencies. For those not yet ready to speak to police, alternative support agencies are available to help.