JAMES WRAY FROM DONINGTON SENTENCED TO THREE YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES AT LINCOLN CROWN COURT

In a case that has shocked the community of Donington, James Wray, aged 43, has been handed a three-year prison sentence after being convicted of serious child sexual assault charges. The conviction was delivered at Lincoln Crown Court, where Wray was found guilty in his absence of two counts of sexual assault against a minor. The charges stem from incidents that occurred between 2015 and 2018, and the trial itself lasted three days before Christmas, concluding with the jury's unanimous verdict.

Wray, who was formerly residing on Quadring Road in Donington, was not present in court for the final day of his trial. Instead, he was remanded into custody immediately after the verdict was announced, to await sentencing. The prosecution, led by Siward James-Moore, presented a compelling case, including an impact statement from the victim, who cannot be named due to legal restrictions. This statement was provided to the judge during the sentencing hearing, highlighting the profound emotional and psychological toll inflicted by Wray’s actions.

During the proceedings, Wray’s defense attorney, Karen Walton, addressed the court, providing context about her client’s background. She explained that Wray had been struggling with alcohol abuse and emphasized that there was no prior record of deviant behavior towards children. Walton described Wray’s reaction on the final day of the trial as one of panic, suggesting that he was overwhelmed by the situation. She also noted that Wray had already spent over two months in custody and expressed his willingness to engage with probation services, stating that her client was committed to seeking help and making amends.

Judge James House KC, presiding over the case, delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of the offences. He stated, “These offences are so serious that only an immediate custodial sentence is appropriate,” underscoring the severity of the crimes committed. The judge acknowledged the suffering endured by the victim, describing it as “enormous pain and confusion,” and stressed the importance of holding Wray accountable for his actions.

In addition to the three-year sentence, Wray received a concurrent seven-day imprisonment for his failure to attend the trial, which was served alongside his primary sentence. The police confirmed that the charges were brought forward on June 10, 2021, following a detailed investigation by officers from the Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP) unit. This investigation was initiated after the victim came forward in 2020, leading to the eventual prosecution of Wray. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure that justice is served for victims of such heinous crimes.