STUART WADE FROM DISS AND NEWMARKET FOUND GUILTY OF CHILD RAPE IN IPSWICH COURT

In a significant and disturbing case that has captured the attention of the local community, Stuart Wade, a man originally from Newmarket and now residing in Diss, was convicted of heinous crimes involving a young child. The incident took place in Newmarket, where Wade was accused of sexually assaulting a four-year-old boy. The trial, held at Ipswich Crown Court, culminated in a verdict that has sent shockwaves through the region.

Wade, who is now known as Stuart Hammond and currently lives in Lowestoft, was 18 years old at the time of the trial. He faced two charges of orally raping a child under the age of 13, with the events allegedly occurring in July of the previous year. Wade had denied the allegations throughout the proceedings, maintaining his innocence. However, the jury, composed of seven women and five men, was instructed to consider only one of the charges, as the judge, John Devaux, decided to discharge the jury from delivering a verdict on the second charge. This decision was based on the victim's testimony, which the judge described as a continuous act, warranting a single consideration.

The jury deliberated for less than an hour and a half before returning a guilty verdict on the remaining charge. The swift decision underscored the strength of the evidence presented against Wade. Following the verdict, the court adjourned sentencing until March 6, allowing time for a psychiatric assessment of Wade and a report from the probation service. The judge emphasized the importance of evaluating the potential danger Wade might pose, not only to children but to the wider community.

Wade was remanded into custody until the sentencing hearing and was ordered to sign the sex offenders' register. The length of time he would remain on the register was to be determined during the sentencing process. During the trial, prosecutor Lindsay Cox revealed that the victim's mother was deeply shocked when her child disclosed that Wade had 'learned' him to perform the act described in the allegations. This revelation added to the gravity of the case and highlighted the disturbing nature of the offenses committed.

The case has left a lasting impact on the local communities of Diss and Newmarket, raising concerns about child safety and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from harm. The court's decision to proceed with a thorough psychiatric evaluation underscores the seriousness with which the justice system is treating this case, aiming to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent future harm.