SHAUN GALLOWAY FROM THORNABY SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CHILD DURING FOOT MASSAGE IN TEESSIDE
In August 2023, a disturbing case emerged from Thornaby involving Shaun Galloway, a 35-year-old man, who was found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl during what was supposed to be a simple foot massage.The incident has left the young victim suffering from severe psychological trauma, including flashbacks and night terrors, and has profoundly impacted her daily life.
According to court proceedings held at Middlesbrough, Galloway was charged with two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child.
The court heard that the abuse occurred when Galloway was giving the girl a foot massage, a situation that initially appeared innocent but quickly turned sinister.
During the massage, Galloway began touching the girl’s private parts without her consent, and at one point, pushed her foot against his groin, causing her to feel frightened and confused.
The young girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, reported the assault to her parents, which led to Galloway’s arrest.
Her parent described the profound changes in her behavior following the incident, stating, “Everything changed on that day.
Since then [name of victim] has become withdrawn and isolated.
She finds it really difficult to talk now and only communicates via text messages occasionally.
She shuts herself away in her bedroom and avoids contact with others.
[Name of victim] has been through a traumatic experience that has affected her mental health and wellbeing.” The court was also informed that the victim has engaged in self-harm and has had suicidal thoughts, highlighting the severe emotional toll inflicted by the abuse.
Judge Howard Crowson, presiding over the case, emphasized that if Galloway were to be imprisoned, he would not benefit from the support services available through the probation system.
As a result, the judge opted for a suspended sentence.
Galloway was sentenced to two years in prison, but this sentence was suspended for 18 months.
Additionally, he is required to complete 30 days of rehabilitation activities and perform 150 hours of unpaid community work.
Furthermore, Galloway, who resides on Harlow Crescent in Thornaby, is mandated to register as a sex offender and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) for the next decade, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to prevent further harm.
This case underscores the devastating impact of sexual abuse on young victims and highlights the importance of justice and protective measures in safeguarding vulnerable children in the Teesside area.
