ALAN TRATTLES FROM MIDDLESBROUGH SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRL UNDER 13
In a distressing case that unfolded at Teesside Crown Court, a young girl who was subjected to sexual abuse by Alan Trattles, a 43-year-old man from Middlesbrough, recounted her harrowing experience and the aftermath of the trauma she endured.It was revealed that the girl, who was under the age of 13 at the time of the abuse, only came to understand the severity and wrongfulness of what had happened to her after attending a sex education class at school.
This realization was a pivotal moment in her awareness of the abuse she had suffered.
Alan Trattles, of Atlee Road in Grangetown, Middlesbrough, denied any involvement in the allegations.
However, after a jury deliberated, he was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault against the young girl.
The verdict was delivered in November of the previous year, and Trattles was subsequently brought before the court to face sentencing.
During the proceedings, Trattles appeared via a video link from HMP Durham, where he was serving time.
The court was informed that a police investigation was initiated following the courageous testimony of the victim.
She had confided in a friend, who then reported the abuse to her mother, prompting authorities to launch an investigation.
The girl, in her victim impact statement, described the profound emotional and psychological toll the abuse had taken on her.
She shared that she had begun to self-harm and experienced severe nightmares, waking up drenched in sweat.
She also reported having flashbacks and sleeping with the lights on to feel safe.
She expressed frustration at the lengthy legal process, stating that she had to wait years for her case to reach court and was unable to access counseling until after the trial concluded, fearing it might influence her testimony.
Her mother was praised for her unwavering support during this difficult period, as the girl’s emotional state was described as being extremely fragile.
Judge Howard Crowson addressed the court, emphasizing the importance of the victim’s realization that the actions of Trattles were wrong, especially considering her young age and limited understanding of such matters at the time.
The judge highlighted the significance of her awareness in the context of justice.
Trattles showed no visible emotion as he was sentenced to nine years in prison.
Following his incarceration, he will be placed under supervision by the probation service to monitor his conduct upon release.
