MAN JAILED FOR FIVE YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEEN
A man convicted of sexually abusing a vulnerable teenage girl has received a five-year prison sentence.Steven Atkiss, aged 62, was found guilty in a trial of seven counts related to sexual activity with a minor.
The judge at Shrewsbury Crown Court handed down the sentence on Tuesday, April 21.
The court was informed that Atkiss, who resides in Castle Caereinion near Welshpool, engaged in abuse over the span of a year.
His misconduct began with touching the girl’s breast over her clothing and escalated to more intrusive acts.
Judge Trevor Meegan noted that Atkiss appeared to become more confident over time, driven by a feeling of power, and at one point made comments about more severe sexual activities the girl refused.
Approximately a month before the abuse was discovered, Atkiss questioned the girl about her feelings towards his actions.
When she expressed her discomfort, he used manipulative tactics to persuade her to continue.
The abusive behavior halted temporarily but resumed until the final incident was revealed when the girl confided in her mother, prompting police involvement.
In her victim impact statement, the girl recounted her struggles, including two suicide attempts.
She described ongoing issues such as anxiety, flashbacks, panic attacks, and a profound fear stemming from the abuse.
She expressed frustration about living among people like Atkiss who dismiss teenagers’ autonomy for their own short-term gratification, adding that she is left with persistent rage.
Judge Meegan highlighted that the abuse affected her self-image, leading to eating disorders and difficulties forming relationships.
Her education was seriously disrupted.
The judge also emphasized that Atkiss’s denial and refusal to take responsibility intensified her trauma.
He stated, “The effects of what you did will remain with her for life,” Judge Meegan said.
“I very much hope your actions do not define her long life, which she has yet to live.” Comments in a pre-sentence report suggested Atkiss showed resignation rather than remorse, with little insight or acceptance of his guilt, indicating a lack of accountability.
While considering mitigation, the judge acknowledged Atkiss’s steady employment over 25 years, the recent loss of his long-term partner, support from his adult children, and the absence of a history of substance abuse.
It was also noted that two previous trials were halted due to jury issues unrelated to Atkiss.
Sentenced to five years for the most serious charge, Atkiss received concurrent sentences for the other six charges.
His actual time in custody will be about two-thirds of that approximately three years before release on licence.
He is also mandated to register as a sex offender indefinitely.
