GEORGE STEVENSON OF LANGLEY MILL SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN DERBY

In a case that spanned over three decades, George Stevenson, a 75-year-old resident of Turner Avenue in Langley Mill, was finally brought to justice for his long-standing history of sexual abuse involving a young boy and girl. The proceedings took place at Derby Crown Court, where Stevenson was sentenced to a total of 12 years in prison for his heinous crimes.

During the sentencing, Stevenson experienced a physical collapse within the courtroom. He was assisted by security personnel who helped him regain his footing and ensured he was unharmed before he was led away from the dock. The incident underscored the emotional toll of the case on the defendant, who appeared visibly distressed.

Initially, Stevenson entered the trial last month denying all ten counts of sexual assault brought against him. However, midway through the three-day trial, he unexpectedly changed his plea, admitting guilt on two of the lesser charges. He explained to the jury that his decision was influenced by his Christian faith, which he claimed prevented him from lying after swearing on the Bible, a statement that drew skepticism from the presiding judge.

Judge John Burgess, presiding over the case, expressed his doubts about Stevenson’s motives, suggesting that the defendant’s plea change was an attempt to manipulate the jury in hopes of avoiding conviction on the more serious allegations. These included a grave sexual assault on a seven-year-old boy, three counts of indecent assault on a boy aged between seven and eleven, and four counts of indecent assault on a girl aged ten and eleven. All charges pertained to abuse committed over several years, involving the same victims.

Following the presentation of evidence, the jury deliberated for less than two hours before unanimously convicting Stevenson on all eight remaining charges. The victims, who testified during the trial, shared heartbreaking statements about the lasting impact of the abuse. The female victim revealed that she still struggles with trust issues, indicating the deep psychological scars left by Stevenson’s actions.

In delivering the sentence, Judge Burgess was clear in his condemnation. He dismissed any credit for Stevenson’s admissions, stating, “I’m asked by your barrister to give you some credit for admissions you made during the trial. I can’t give you any credit for that at all.” The judge further remarked that Stevenson’s attempt to manipulate the case was unsuccessful, emphasizing that no sentence could undo the damage inflicted upon the victims.

Throughout the sentencing hearing, Stevenson repeatedly protested his innocence regarding the charges he continued to deny. At one point, the judge had to order him to remain silent, as he persisted in claiming he was innocent. Judge Burgess condemned the defendant’s actions, stating, “This was sexual abuse for your own sexual gratification,” and underscored the gravity of the crimes committed.

In mitigation, Stevenson’s legal representative, Alastair Munt, requested the court to consider his client’s advanced age and his wife’s poor health when determining the length of his imprisonment. However, Judge Burgess responded firmly, asserting that justice must be served in accordance with the severity of the offenses.

Following the sentencing, one of the victims, a male survivor, expressed relief at the outcome. He stated, “It’s a great relief. I don’t know if it will help me move on, but it’s a start.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the enduring scars of childhood abuse and the importance of justice for victims.