JOHN POWER FROM TUNSTALL CONVICTED OF SEX OFFENCE INVOLVING SCHOOLGIRL IN STAFFORD

In July 2018, a disturbing case emerged involving John Power, a 38-year-old man from Tunstall, who was found guilty of a historic sexual offence committed against a teenage girl. The incident, which took place several years prior, was brought to light after the victim confided in her mother, leading to Power's eventual arrest and prosecution.

Stafford Crown Court heard that Power had engaged in a pattern of grooming behavior towards the young girl before the assault. Prosecutor Nigel Booth detailed that in the lead-up to the offence, Power had been attempting to establish a romantic relationship with the teenager by giving her gifts such as chocolates and flowers. He expressed his affection openly, telling her that he loved her and that he could not bear to see her with anyone else. This manipulation was part of a broader grooming strategy aimed at gaining her trust and affection.

The court was informed that the assault occurred on a day when Power entered the girl’s bedroom and got into her bed. According to Mr. Booth, Power then placed his hand under the waistband of her pyjama bottoms and into her groin area. The victim, feeling uncomfortable and wanting to prevent further contact, pulled away from him. Despite his attempt to go further, she managed to resist and stop his advances. It was emphasized that Power had no previous convictions, making this case particularly serious given the breach of trust involved.

Power was arrested some time after the incident, following the girl’s disclosure to her mother. Initially, he denied any sexual activity with a child, but he later pleaded guilty to a single charge during his trial. The court heard that Power, who resides at Limeheath Place, Tunstall, had recently been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, which was presented as part of his mitigation.

Judge Stephen Thomas sentenced Power to nine months in prison, suspended for 18 months. As part of his sentence, Power is required to complete a 35-day rehabilitation activity program and perform 150 hours of unpaid work. The judge also imposed a three-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting his contact with children, and mandated that he register as a sex offender for the next ten years. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the offence and the need for ongoing monitoring to protect the community from potential harm.