GARY STEED FROM WEETING SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE IN NORFOLK

In a case that has shocked the local community and drawn widespread condemnation, Gary Steed, a 49-year-old man from Peppers Close in Weeting, Norfolk, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term following his conviction on multiple serious sexual offences. The crimes, which spanned over two decades, involved the abuse of three children and one adult woman, and have been described by the presiding judge as an "most appalling catalogue of abuse".

Steed's sentencing came after a four-week trial held at Norwich Crown Court last month, where he was found guilty of seven criminal charges. In addition to the convictions, Steed pleaded guilty to three other sexual offences, further underscoring the severity of his actions. The court sentenced him to an extended term of 18 years, which includes a custodial period of 13 years and an extended licence period of five years, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the public.

Judge Mark Lucraft, who delivered the sentence, described the offences as "shocking abuse" and emphasized the disturbing nature of Steed’s conduct. He stated, "I am quite satisfied that there is a significant risk of the commission by you of further specified offences and that there is also a significant risk to members of the public of serious harm." The judge’s comments highlight the concern for community safety and the potential for future offending.

The abuse allegations involve four victims, with the youngest victim being only five years old at the time of the offences. The criminal acts took place over a period from 1985 to 2012, revealing a disturbing pattern of predatory behaviour. The charges include one count of incitement to engage in sexual activity involving a girl, two counts of sexual assault on another girl, an indecent assault, and three counts of indecency with a child. Additionally, Steed admitted to three sexual offences committed against an adult woman, further illustrating the extent of his misconduct.

During the proceedings, defense representative Jonathan Goodman argued that it was inaccurate to describe the timeline as a continuous 20-year period of conduct, instead framing it as a series of incidents occurring within that timeframe. Nonetheless, the court’s focus remained on the cumulative impact of Steed’s actions and the danger he poses.

Detective Constable Tina King, who was involved in the investigation, expressed her support for the sentence, describing Steed as a "dangerous individual" who "preyed" on vulnerable young girls. Her comments underscore the seriousness with which law enforcement approached this case and the importance of holding offenders accountable to protect potential future victims.