Guilty of sexually abusing two young boys.

Cheltenham Man Sentenced to 16 Years for Sexually Abusing Two Boys

Craig Sykes, 46, of Cromwell Road, Oakley, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young boys. He was convicted on six counts related to the abuse, which occurred between 1995 and 2005.

Sykes was accused of several serious crimes, including sexual assault of a child under 13, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, oral rape of a child, indecent assault of a 13-year-old child, and child cruelty by willfully assaulting a boy.

Despite denying the allegations, Sykes was found guilty by a jury after a five-day trial. Two other charges were dropped during the trial.

Detective Constable James Coll said: "This has been an emotional case, and this sentence shows that we will not stand for the despicable crimes against children that Sykes committed."

"I would like to commend the victims for the courage and strength they have shown throughout this case. Their bravery in coming forward and seeing this through has helped put Sykes behind bars for a long time."

"We would encourage anyone that has been subject to sexual violence and rape to come forward, no matter how long ago it had happened, as Gloucestershire Constabulary will continually work tirelessly to ensure that victims of sexual offences are heard. Under UK law, victims of rape and sexual assault are granted full anonymity. We ask that no comments are made which would identify the victims in this case."