JAMES MASON OF LOWER STRETTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN MANCHESTER COURT

In a case that has shocked the community of Lower Stretton, James Mason, a man previously known for his role as a pub landlord, has been convicted of multiple serious sexual offences involving a young boy. Mason, aged 55 and residing on Northwich Road in Lower Stretton, was sentenced to 11 years in prison at Manchester Minshull Crown Court on a Monday in December 2016, following a detailed trial that revealed disturbing details of his misconduct.

During the proceedings, the court heard that Mason had groomed and exploited a young boy, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons. The abuse began when the victim was just seven years old, with Mason inappropriately touching him and later performing a sexual act. Mason then asked the boy to 'do the same,' but the incident was interrupted when Mason heard someone approaching the room, preventing further immediate abuse at that time.

There were no reports of further abuse until the victim reached his teenage years. During this period, the victim, who struggled with his sexuality, believed he had developed a 'mutual loving bond' with Mason, a misconception that Mason exploited. Prosecutor Henry Blackshaw emphasized that Mason's actions demonstrated a pattern of grooming behavior that spanned several years, ultimately causing lasting emotional damage to the victim, particularly affecting his ability to form new relationships.

Despite the evidence and the jury's unanimous verdict in October, Mason continues to deny any wrongdoing. His defense attorney, David Farley, highlighted Mason's previous convictions for drink driving in 2006 and criminal damage in 1993, and insisted that Mason maintains his innocence. Farley also pointed out that Mason has a supportive network of family and friends who continue to stand by him, describing him as helpful, friendly, and trustworthy.

However, Judge Timothy Mort, presiding over the case, expressed strong disapproval of Mason's denial and highlighted the betrayal of trust involved. The judge remarked that Mason, being older than the victim, took advantage of the boy's trust and shamelessly abused it. He also noted the surprising nature of Mason's claims, given that Mason has a child and is involved in a heterosexual relationship, which contrasts sharply with the allegations.

Mason was convicted on multiple counts, including five of indecent assault on a male, four of gross indecency with a boy under 14, and one of buggery. As part of his sentence, Mason is required to serve half of his 11-year term before being eligible for release. Additionally, a sexual offences prevention order has been imposed to restrict his future conduct.

Earlier in October 2016, Mason had been found guilty after a five-day trial that involved a jury deliberating for over five hours. The case was moved from magistrates' court to Minshull Street Crown Court due to the severity of the charges. Mason now awaits sentencing scheduled for November 21, with a pre-sentence report ordered by the judge to inform the final decision.