GATESHEAD PAEDOPHILE STEVEN NIXON SENTENCED FOR ABUSING SIX-YEAR-OLD VICTIM

In a case that has shocked the community of Gateshead, Steven Nixon, a 42-year-old man from Fernhill Avenue, Fellside Park, Whickham, was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of multiple serious offences involving the sexual abuse of a young girl. Nixon’s crimes, which spanned over two years, involved a disturbing pattern of indecency and assault against his fourth child victim, beginning when she was only six years old.

His arrest and subsequent conviction followed a detailed investigation that was triggered when the young girl confided in a social worker about the abuse she had endured. The court was informed that Nixon had a history of similar offences, having previously been convicted of indecent assault against a three-year-old boy in 1988, and against a five-year-old boy and a nine-year-old girl in 1991. These prior convictions painted a troubling picture of Nixon’s long-standing predatory behavior.

During the trial at Durham Crown Court, the prosecution outlined the horrifying details of Nixon’s latest crimes. He admitted to three counts of indecent assault and four counts of sexual assault against the same young girl, with the assaults continuing for a period of two years. The victim was reportedly threatened by Nixon, who warned her, “If I told anyone he would kill me,” a statement that underscored the coercive and terrifying environment Nixon created for his victim.

Further evidence presented in court revealed that police officers, during a search of Nixon’s residence, uncovered a disturbing collection of indecent images. The search of his home, which he shared with his elderly parents, yielded 582 indecent images on his computer, along with seven inappropriate films featuring children. Nixon admitted to possessing this material, adding another layer of depravity to his crimes.

Representing Nixon, lawyer Robin Patton, acknowledged his client’s recognition of his own paedophilia. Patton described Nixon as “grossly obese” and noted that his social life was limited, confined largely to his home with his elderly parents, suggesting a reclusive and isolated existence.

Judge John Evans sentenced Nixon to seven years in prison. However, the judge ordered that Nixon serve only the first four years behind bars, with the remaining three years on licence, meaning he could potentially be released within two years. Additionally, Nixon was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was permanently barred from working with children, ensuring he would never again have access to vulnerable minors. The case has left a lasting impact on the Gateshead community, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding against such heinous crimes.