Guilty to a series of sex offences against the youngsters committed a number of years ago.

Vincent Douglas Jailed for Child Sex Offences

Vincent Douglas, 53, was jailed at Teesside Crown Court on Tuesday, September 7, after pleading guilty to a series of sex offences against young people committed several years ago. His crimes came to light when one of his victims disclosed the abuse to staff at her college.

Douglas initially denied the allegations, even after the case was referred to the Crown Court. However, he eventually confessed to six charges before a trial could proceed. He admitted to two counts of sexual assault of a child, two of assault of a child by penetration, and two of sexual activity with a child.

Douglas was sentenced to a total of nine years and five months in prison. Police have praised the sentence, stating that it sends a strong message to abusers that they will be held accountable for their actions.

Judge Timothy Stead, in handing down the sentence, remarked, "This is multiple repeat offending." Referring to an impact statement provided by one of the victims, Judge Stead said, "She speaks of panic attacks and flashbacks, and she herself feeling guilty. Of course she shouldn't feel guilty, but that I'm afraid is a common consequence, phenomenon, of offending of this nature."

The second victim described feeling unable to trust people or go out alone due to the trauma she experienced. A Cleveland Police spokesperson stated, "We welcome the sentence handed to Douglas; it sends a very clear message that those who abuse children have nowhere to hide. Our specially trained officers will always investigate thoroughly any form of abuse against children, no matter how long ago it happened. Victims and their families will also receive specialist support from police and other agencies throughout the entire process while we do all we can to bring perpetrators before the courts. We hope today's sentence brings comfort and a degree of closure to the victims and their families."

Douglas, of Greenwood Road, Hartlepool, will be required to register as a sex offender indefinitely. He was also given a one-year extended licence upon his release.

Anyone experiencing any form of abuse, or who has concerns about someone they believe to be at risk, is urged to contact Cleveland Police on 101, available 24 hours a day.