STEPHEN COLLINS FROM ALNWICK FACES SERIOUS SEX OFFENDER CHARGES IN NEWCASTLE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Alnwick, Stephen Collins, aged 56, has been implicated in a series of serious sexual offenses involving a minor. The allegations stem from incidents that occurred between 1999 and 2003, involving a single male victim, and have now culminated in a court case at Newcastle Crown Court.

Initially scheduled for trial on a Monday, Collins unexpectedly changed his plea at the last moment, opting to admit guilt on some counts. He pleaded guilty to seven charges of gross indecency with a child under the age of 14, and two additional counts of gross indecency with a child under the age of 16. However, he maintained his innocence on two other counts of gross indecency with a child under 14, denying those allegations.

Throughout the proceedings, Collins’s defense, led by Joe Hedworth, highlighted his client’s recent mental health assessments. Hedworth stated that Collins had consulted a mental-health team shortly before appearing in court and had previously seen a psychologist in 2003, citing issues related to anxiety and depression. The defense also pointed out that Collins is currently experiencing health problems and was advised that his life expectancy might be limited.

The judge, John Evans, ordered that the case be adjourned until the week beginning Monday, January 27, to allow for a pre-sentence report. Additionally, a medical report and possibly a supplementary mental health assessment were requested, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges. Judge Evans described the allegations as “serious matters” and noted the importance of thorough evaluation before sentencing.

Collins remains on bail and is subject to the requirements of the Sex Offenders’ Register. The prosecution announced that they would offer no evidence in relation to the counts for which Collins entered a not-guilty plea, effectively dropping those charges from further consideration at this stage. The case continues to develop as authorities prepare for the next phase of legal proceedings.