Locations
Argyll Road, Norton, Stockton-On-Tees, TS20
Description
A pensioner found guilty of child sexual offences has been put behind bars.
Henry Devine was initially arrested in February 2021 on suspicion of sexual touching of a child. While enquiries were carried out into the allegations, Cleveland Police seized a number of electronic devices belonging to the 72-year-old and discovered over 1,600 indecent images of children.
Hundreds of the images were identified in the 'most serious category' of child abuse. The Norton paedophile appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Friday where he was sentenced after being found guilty of sexual assault and possessing indecent images of children.
A three-day trial had taken place in mid-May at Teesside Magistrates' Court where Devine faced six charges, three of sexual assault and another three of possessing indecent images of children and was found guilty. He was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment when he appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court.
Officer in the case CAVA (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adult) Detective Constable Gemma Allan said: “The young victim was understandably left extremely distressed by Devine’s actions and we ensured safeguarding was put in place as soon as we received the report. The victim was very brave though and was able to give officers an account which meant we could get our enquiries underway quickly and effectively.
“I hope today’s result will bring reassurance that Devine will now be in prison and subject to strictly monitored restrictions on his release.” Safeguarding CAVA Detective Chief Inspector Matt Murphy-King added: “Devine’s actions were deplorable and our priority, as with all our investigations, was the wellbeing and safeguarding of the victim while we worked with the CPS to bring this defendant before the courts.
“CAVA’s experienced and specially trained officers will always carry out a thorough, professional and sensitive investigation against anyone who would harm and abuse vulnerable people. Abuse of any nature, recent or non-recent, can be reported at any time of day or night to Cleveland Police online on the website or via the 101 number.”