JOHN ROLLINS FROM PLAWSWORTH SENTENCED TO OVER 17 YEARS FOR CHILD ABUSE IN DURHAM

In a case that has spanned over two decades, John Rollins, a man from Plawsworth, has been sentenced to more than 17 years in prison for a disturbing campaign of child sexual abuse. The offences, which took place many years ago, only came to light after a series of revelations and investigations that ultimately led to his conviction.

Durham Crown Court heard that Rollins, aged 66 at the time of sentencing, had subjected two young children to a series of sexual assaults. During the proceedings, it was revealed that one of the victims only discovered the other was also a victim several years after the abuse had occurred. The situation was further complicated when a third party, who had become aware of the abuse, informed authorities, prompting the confrontation with Rollins.

Prosecutor Rupert Doswell described the moment of confrontation, stating that when Rollins was questioned about the allegations of rape, he appeared visibly shaken. His reaction was described as one where his jaw dropped, indicating a moment of shock or realization. It was only after this initial reaction that Rollins admitted to the crimes, telling his accuser, “Aye. Aye, I did, but I was going through a bad time in my life.”

Rollins, who resided at The Fells, a charity-run hostel for homeless men located in Plawsworth near Chester-le-Street, pleaded guilty in July to multiple charges. These included three counts of rape, five counts of indecent assault, and four counts of gross indecency with a child. The court was informed that one of the victims felt a mixture of disgust and shame, and was deeply worried about the repercussions if their abuse was ever disclosed.

During the sentencing hearing, Stephen Constantine, representing the defense, argued that Rollins had limited recollection of the events from all those years ago. He also emphasized that since the offending had ceased, there had been no further incidents. Despite this, Judge Christopher Prince delivered a stern sentence, stating that Rollins’ initial reaction upon being confronted was to attempt to justify his actions and then to evoke misplaced self-pity for what he had done.

As part of his sentence, Rollins was ordered to be subject to a sexual harm prevention order and will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. The case highlights the long-lasting impact of abuse and the importance of justice, even many years after the crimes were committed, in the town of Plawsworth and the wider Durham area.