STEVE CLAY FROM PLYMOUTH, PORTLAND, AND WEYMOUTH FACES JAIL FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS

In August 2018, a disturbing case unfolded involving Steven Clay, a man with deep ties to Plymouth, Portland, and Weymouth, who was convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault against two young girls. The proceedings took place at Plymouth Crown Court, where a jury composed of three women and nine men deliberated for over six hours and thirty-seven minutes before reaching a verdict.

Steven Clay, aged 61, a former Royal Navy sailor and lay preacher, was found guilty of seven counts of indecent assault. The jury delivered a mixed verdict, convicting him on four counts by an 11-1 majority and on three counts unanimously. One additional count of indecent assault was considered but ultimately acquitted by the jury.

During the trial, evidence was presented indicating that Clay had used a vibrator during the assaults in the 1980s. Despite the allegations, Clay maintained his innocence, denying any sexual contact with the girls. He had pleaded not guilty to eight counts of indecent assault, which spanned from 1983 to 1990. The charges involved two girls, with six counts related to one and two to the other.

The victims did not come forward immediately; they only reported the abuse to authorities in late 2016. One of the complainants was shown in a video interview, where she expressed her fear and reluctance to speak out earlier. She recounted feeling “disgust and shame” after Clay allegedly pressed his naked body against her. She described him as “cold” and “controlling,” adding to the trauma she endured.

Throughout the trial, the Crown Prosecution Service highlighted that both women had sought counseling as they grew older. They also confided in friends and partners before finally reporting the abuse to the police. The court heard that Clay was a devout church-goer and served as a Methodist lay preacher in Portland, Dorset. Additionally, he was involved with the Kainos Community, a Christian rehabilitation charity operating at Verne Prison on Portland.

Judge Paul Darlow issued a stern warning to Clay during the proceedings, indicating that he faced a custodial sentence at the upcoming sentencing hearing scheduled for Friday morning. The case has drawn significant attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the long period over which the abuse occurred, highlighting the importance of justice for the victims and accountability for the offender.