A MAN HAS BEEN JAILED FOR 33 YEARS AFTER CARRYING OUT HORRIFIC SEXUAL AND PHYSICAL ABUSE
Stephen Poulton, aged 68 and residing in Ellis Gardens, Hemlington, Middlesbrough, was found guilty of 28 separate charges after a court trial at Teesside Crown Court.The crimes involved extremely distressing sexual and physical violence, which prosecutors described as among the most disturbing they had encountered in their professional experience at the Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults Team.
On Friday, 28th November, Poulton was given a sentence of 33 years behind bars during his appearance at Teesside Crown Court.
Detective Inspector Joanne Lamb, from the Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults (CAVA) Team, said: “Today’s sentencing marks an important step towards justice in this case.
We want to first recognise the extraordinary courage shown by the victims.
Coming forward to speak about deeply painful experiences is never easy and their strength has been essential in bringing the truth to light.
“We hope this outcome provides some measure of comfort for the victims, and we thank them for their bravery, resilience and trust throughout this process.
Their actions have not only helped secure accountability for these horrendous offences, but may also protect others from harm.
“Whilst all forms of abuse are difficult to comprehend, this is a particularly harrowing case, and despite the officers working on it being experienced, they were visibly impacted by the details and levels of abuse perpetrated by Poulton.
“We also want to remind anyone who has experienced or is currently experiencing abuse that support is available.
You are not alone.
We encourage you to speak out.
No one should ever suffer in silence, and today’s sentencing demonstrates that when victims come forward, their voices are heard.”
