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An officer has praised the courage of three victims who bravely came forward to report non-recent abuse as two men have today been jailed.
In November 2022, police received a report from a man about how he had been sexually assaulted more than 30 years ago when he was a child.
Two more victims came forward to report non-recent abuse and an investigation was subsequently launched by Stockton CID.
Colin Smith, now 75, was soon arrested and charged with buggery and three counts of indecent assault in relation to all three victims. Kevin Danks, now 61, was also arrested and charged with indecent assault against one of the victims.
They appeared in court and pleaded guilty to the offences during the start of their trial.
On Friday 18th July, Smith and Danks appeared at Teesside Crown Court for sentencing. Smith was sentenced to 12 years and six months in prison whilst Danks was sentenced to 5 years and six months in prison.
Investigating officer, DC Rusby said:
“Despite the passage of time, justice has caught up with Smith and Danks who both face long prison sentences thanks to the courage and bravery of the victims.
“Whilst no prison sentence can ever undo the pain and trauma inflicted on the victims, I hope it will go some way to help them gain closure and move forward with their lives.
“For those who believe they can prey on vulnerable children, I want to make it clear that we will relentlessly pursue you and you will be brought before the courts.
“I hope this sentencing reassures anyone who has suffered abuse, no matter how long ago it may have happened, that we will do all we can to bring offenders to justice.”