ALAN IBINSON FROM HETTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ATTACKS ON SCHOOLGIRLS IN WEARSIDE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, Alan Ibinson, a resident of Hetton, was sentenced to a decade behind bars for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against two young girls during their childhood. The disturbing incidents, which took place years ago, have left lasting scars on the victims, both of whom are now adults, and have brought to light the dark underbelly of abuse that can occur even within seemingly ordinary communities.

According to court reports, Ibinson, aged 62 and living on Lambton Avenue in Hetton, was found guilty of 13 separate counts of indecent assault and sexual assault. The trial revealed that he had targeted the young girls during their formative years, subjecting them to acts that have been described as sickening and deeply traumatic. The court heard harrowing testimonies from the victims, who recounted how these experiences have profoundly affected their lives.

One of the victims, now an adult, expressed her feelings of revulsion and emotional turmoil, stating that Ibinson’s actions made her feel “physically sick.” She also confided that she hated herself once the truth was uncovered, revealing her fears about whether anyone would believe her. The other woman, also grown up, described her ordeal as her “biggest nightmare” and the “darkest part of my life,” emphasizing the profound impact the abuse has had on her mental health and well-being.

During the proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court, it was made clear that Ibinson had consistently denied all allegations, forcing the victims to relive their painful experiences during the trial. Despite his protests of innocence, the evidence presented was compelling enough to secure a conviction.

Judge Alisdair MacDonald QC, presiding over the case, sentenced Ibinson to ten years in prison. In addition to the custodial sentence, he imposed a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order and mandated that Ibinson register as a sex offender. The judge emphasized the courage of the victims in coming forward, acknowledging that they had kept these dark secrets for years. He stated, “The victims thought this was a guilty secret. They bear no guilt, they were courageous in coming forward to speak about this. The only person to bear any guilt is you.”

The court also noted that Ibinson had led what appeared to be a normal life as a hardworking family man and had no prior convictions. Despite his claims of innocence, the court’s decision reflects the severity of his crimes and the lasting damage inflicted upon his victims.