PREDATOR JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEX ABUSE OF TWO CHILDREN
A man named Steven Richardson, aged 53, sexually abused two children approximately 15 years ago and pressured them to keep silent about what he called their “little game”.His crimes were only uncovered recently when the victims reported the incidents to authorities.
Richardson appeared at Bournemouth Crown Court on June 14, where he was convicted of six counts of sexual offences involving minors.
The prosecution, led by Simon Jones, stated that the jury found Richardson guilty of all charges after a trial lasting seven days.
One of the victims provided a statement expressing the lasting impact of the abuse, saying they now find it difficult to trust men, even those who are safe, and shared how their life and relationships have been damaged.
The victim also reflected that Richardson had ruined their interactions with others and their overall life, yet also mentioned they have managed to thrive despite these hardships.
They emphasised that Richardson would no longer be able to hurt someone again.
During sentencing, defence lawyer Malcolm Gibney noted that Richardson had no prior convictions, had moved to the UK, and continues to support his family back in South Africa.
He also remarked on the prison system, stating inmates are confined for 23 hours daily.
Judge Jonathan Fuller KC described Richardson’s actions, stating he inappropriately touched a child and made the child touch him in return, using the excuse of cleaning to justify this misconduct.
The judge also highlighted that Richardson repeatedly pressured the children to expose themselves and that these incidents profoundly affected one of the victims’ lives, hindering their pursuit of their desired career due to mental health issues.
Richardson manipulated the victims to keep quiet through threats and warnings about their “little game”.
Despite his denials and forcing the victims to testify, the judge noted both victims displayed remarkable courage in enduring these experiences.
The judge concluded that Richardson’s only leniency was his lack of previous offences.
He was sentenced to 14 years in prison, given a sexual harm prevention order, and registered as a sex offender for life.
