GRAHAM STADDON FROM COMBE MARTIN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES IN NORTH DEVON

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Combe Martin, Graham Staddon was convicted of serious sexual offenses and subsequently sentenced to a lengthy prison term. The incident, which took place in the North Devon area, involved the abuse of a young girl, and has been described by the court as a profoundly disturbing event that no parent would ever want to face.

Graham Staddon, a resident of Combe Martin, was found guilty of multiple charges related to the sexual assault of a nine-year-old girl. The court heard that the offenses occurred in the area, causing widespread concern among local residents and raising questions about safety and safeguarding in the community.

The court proceedings revealed that Staddon’s actions included acts of sexual assault, and he was also found guilty of other related crimes, including voyeurism and false imprisonment with the intent to commit a sexual offence. The judge described the case as 'every parent’s nightmare,' emphasizing the severity and the impact of the crimes on the victim and her family.

Staddon was initially sentenced to 12 years in prison in March 2015. The court declared him 'extremely dangerous,' and ordered that he serve a minimum of eight years before being eligible for parole. Additionally, he was placed on the sex offenders register for life, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the potential risk he poses to the community.

However, in a subsequent appeal, Staddon’s legal representatives successfully argued for a reduction in his sentence. The court agreed, and his jail term was shortened to ten years, allowing for the possibility of earlier release under strict conditions. The case remains a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and protective measures within small communities like Combe Martin, where such heinous acts can have a lasting impact.