JAMES STEWART FROM BARNSEY AND ROYSTON JAILED FOR CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Barnsley and Royston, a 47-year-old man named James Stewart has been sentenced to prison for a series of heinous sexual offences involving a minor. The offences, which came to light after the brave actions of the young victim, highlight the dangers of online grooming and exploitation.

James Stewart, who resides on Station Road in Royston, pleaded guilty to multiple serious charges, including causing or inciting a child under the age of 16 to engage in sexual activity, engaging in sexual activity with a minor, and grooming a 15-year-old girl. Additionally, he admitted to breaching a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which was likely put in place to prevent further contact with minors.

Following his guilty pleas, Stewart was sentenced to six and a half years in prison. The court also imposed a further three and a half years of supervised release on license, during which he will be under strict monitoring to prevent any further offences. The case underscores the severity with which authorities treat crimes involving the exploitation of minors.

The criminal conduct dates back to October 2013, when Stewart began grooming the young girl, who was just 15 at the time. Over the course of nine months, Stewart established a relationship with her, initially claiming to be 19 years old. He engaged in regular communication through texts and phone calls, gradually altering his age to appear older as their contact continued.

As their relationship progressed, Stewart encouraged the girl to engage in sexual activities, eventually meeting her in person. The victim, demonstrating remarkable courage, decided to report Stewart to the police in July of this year. Her decision to come forward led to his swift arrest and remand into custody.

Law enforcement officials seized the victim’s phone, along with three phones belonging to Stewart, to analyze the messages exchanged. Detective Inspector John Fitzgibbons commented on the case, stating, “To gain this teenage victim’s trust, Stewart lied and manipulated her over the course of nine months. He pretended to be someone he wasn’t, using fake names and ages to establish contact with her for the sole purpose of sexual exploitation. He also bought her alcohol and cigarettes as part of his plan to exploit and manipulate her.”

The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online interactions, especially for young people. Detective Inspector Fitzgibbons emphasized the importance of caution, urging teenagers to be wary of talking to strangers over the internet or phone, and to seek help if they feel uncomfortable or threatened. The community and law enforcement hope that this case will serve as a warning to others about the dangers of online grooming and the importance of safeguarding minors from predators.