NIGEL STURMAN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN NORWICH AND ASLACTON

In August 2013, Nigel Sturman, a man with ties to the Norwich community and residing in Aslacton, was sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing teenage girls. The case drew significant attention due to Sturman's previous roles as a leader of youth-oriented groups in Norwich, which included the Society of Anime and Manga, and a Dungeons and Dragons club, both of which met at popular local venues such as the Forum and Battlenet.

Sturman, aged 27 at the time of sentencing, was found guilty of four counts of sexual activity involving teenage victims following a trial held in May. The court proceedings revealed that three of the victims were under the age of 16 when the abuse occurred. Despite the conviction on these counts, he was acquitted of two additional charges related to sexual activity with one of the girls.

During the sentencing hearing at Norwich Crown Court, impact statements from the victims were read aloud, illustrating the profound and lasting effects of Sturman's actions. One victim reportedly suffered from nightmares, highlighting the psychological trauma inflicted upon them. The court was informed that all victims had been deeply affected, with the emotional scars evident in their statements.

Sturman, who resides on Church Road in Aslacton, continued to deny the charges against him. His defense team, led by Lori Tucker, emphasized his previous good character and noted that since his conviction, he had sought medical help and was taking sleeping tablets. Despite his denial, the court found the evidence compelling.

Judge Nicholas Coleman, presiding over the case, sentenced Sturman to six years in prison and imposed a sexual offences prevention order. This order prohibits him from having unsupervised contact with anyone under 16 and requires him to register as a sex offender. The judge expressed that it must be particularly hurtful for the victims that Sturman maintained his innocence, stating, “In my judgment you are manifestly guilty of these offences.”

Judge Coleman also highlighted the risk Sturman posed, describing him as a “high risk” to young people, and pointed out that he was aware of the victims’ ages and vulnerabilities. The impact statements revealed that his actions had significantly disrupted the lives of some victims, with some suffering emotional and psychological consequences for a considerable period.

While acknowledging the seriousness of the crimes, the judge noted that Sturman had not used threats or force, which he considered when determining the sentence. He remarked that any imprisonment would be particularly harsh given the circumstances, but emphasized the importance of protecting young people from potential harm.