SCOTT STEPHENSON FROM HEBDEN BRIDGE SENTENCED TO 19 YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENCES IN MANCHESTER AND LANCASHIRE

In a recent and disturbing case, Scott Stephenson, a man from Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of multiple child sexual offences. The sentencing took place at Manchester Crown Court on Friday, September 1, 2023, where Stephenson, born on May 22, 1973, was found guilty of five counts of sexual offences committed against a minor. In addition to these charges, he was also convicted of two further offences involving a child while he was residing in Lancashire.

Stephenson’s crimes are particularly heinous given his position of trust and authority over the young victim. The court heard that his actions were not only sexually abusive but also involved manipulative tactics, sometimes with the victim receiving rewards for complying with his instructions. The nature of his misconduct is described as sickening, highlighting the severity of his breach of trust and the harm inflicted upon the child.

The victim, who endured these traumatic experiences at a very young age, struggled for years to come forward due to fear, shame, or lack of confidence. It was only after a significant period that the victim found the courage to report the abuse, leading to Stephenson’s eventual arrest and trial.

Following his conviction, Stephenson was sentenced to a total of 19 years in prison. The court determined that he will serve a minimum of two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for parole or release, ensuring he remains incarcerated for a substantial period to reflect the gravity of his crimes and to protect the public from further harm.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for victims of abuse to come forward, as well as the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to bring offenders to justice and safeguard vulnerable children.