HENRY BROWN FROM TOW LAW SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN TEESSIDE

In a case that has spanned decades, justice has finally been served for a young woman who endured horrific sexual abuse at the hands of Henry Brown, a man from Tow Law. The abuse, which took place over 30 years ago, involved Brown grooming and repeatedly assaulting a girl who was only ten years old at the time. The incident was brought to light during a court hearing at Teesside Crown Court, where the full extent of the trauma inflicted upon the victim was revealed.

Henry Brown, now in his late 20s at the time of the abuse, engaged in a pattern of sexual misconduct that left a lasting impact on the young girl’s life. The court heard how the abuse occurred at various locations across the region, with Brown exploiting the girl’s innocence and trust. The victim, who has since come forward, described how she had been manipulated into believing she was Brown’s girlfriend, a misconception that persisted for years. She was confused and unable to comprehend the true nature of his actions, which she only fully understood as she matured.

Prosecutor Vincent Ward detailed the grooming process, emphasizing that the victim still struggles with the emotional scars. In her victim impact statement, she disclosed that she has battled depression since she was around ten years old and has contemplated suicide as a result of her experiences. She expressed that her childhood was marred by sexual trauma, which she believes triggered her ongoing mental health issues. The woman also revealed that she suffers from severe social anxiety, which has led her to avoid leaving her house frequently. She is currently receiving counseling to cope with her past.

The court was informed that Brown had prior convictions related to grooming children for sexual purposes, indicating a pattern of predatory behavior. At the time of the offenses, Brown was residing in assisted accommodation in Tow Law. He faced multiple charges, including indecent assault on a girl under 14, gross indecency with a girl under 14, and sexual activity with a girl under 16. The evidence presented was compelling, and the court found Brown guilty of all charges.

Judge Howard Crowson sentenced Henry Brown to a total of eight years in prison for his crimes. During the sentencing, the judge acknowledged the severity of the offenses, stating, “At the time of the offending she was aged ten and you were in your mid to late 20s. With your encouragement she came to view you as her boyfriend – she was too young to understand the true nature of what you did to her.” The judge emphasized that as the victim matured, she realized the wrongfulness of the abuse, which has contributed to her lifelong struggles with depression and anxiety. The court’s decision reflects the gravity of Brown’s actions and the lasting harm caused to the victim.