DAVID BEVAN AND STEPHEN LEE SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN GLOUCESTER

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Gloucester, two men have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms after being found guilty of serious sexual offences committed against young children spanning over two decades.

Stephen Lee, aged 58, residing in Sandyleaze, Longlevens, and David Bevan, aged 67, of Coney Hill Road, Gloucester, faced trial at Bristol Crown Court where their involvement in a disturbing child abuse case was thoroughly examined. Following a detailed legal process, both men were convicted of multiple counts of sexual misconduct involving minors, with their crimes dating back to the 1970s and continuing into the 1990s.

Judge Longman presided over the case and delivered the sentences, which reflect the gravity of their offences. Stephen Lee received a prison sentence of eight years, while David Bevan was sentenced to four years and nine months behind bars. In addition to their custodial sentences, both men will be required to register as sex offenders indefinitely, a measure that underscores the severity of their crimes and the ongoing risk they pose to the community.

Details of the convictions reveal that Lee was found guilty of indecent assault and acts of indecency involving a child under the age of 16. It was established that Lee exploited his position of trust to commit these offences, which included indecently touching a young girl. Furthermore, he was convicted of similar acts against another child under 16, involving gross indecency.

David Bevan’s convictions included indecent assault on a boy under 16, with evidence indicating that he repeatedly abused his position of trust to indecently touch the boy. He was also convicted of indecent assault against a second boy under 16, highlighting a pattern of predatory behaviour.

Both defendants maintained their innocence throughout the trial, pleading not guilty and forcing their victims to testify in front of a jury. The jury reached a guilty verdict on Tuesday, April 26, after careful deliberation. The case was subsequently adjourned to allow for comprehensive medical reports to be prepared before sentencing.

His Honour Judge Longman expressed his disappointment with the defendants’ refusal to admit guilt, stating that their decision to contest the charges had caused additional trauma to the victims. The judge emphasized that their actions demonstrated a clear lack of remorse and that the suffering endured by the victims would have lasting effects, describing the impact as “profound and long lasting.” The sentences handed down serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of such heinous crimes and the importance of justice for the victims in Gloucester.