ANDREW BROWN FROM GILESGATE AND JARROW SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS IN SOUTH TYNESIDE

In October 2009, a disturbing case concluded with the sentencing of Andrew Stephen Brown, a man whose actions have left a trail of trauma among young victims in the South Tyneside area. Brown, aged 44, was found guilty of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over a span of five years, involving multiple young girls whom he targeted at his residences in Jarrow and Gilesgate, Durham City.

Brown’s criminal behavior was characterized by a pattern of predatory conduct, where he would lure young girls into his homes by offering them alcohol. His homes in Jarrow and Gilesgate became sites of repeated abuse, with the victims ranging in age from 11 to 16 years old. Prosecutor Amanda Rippon described him as a “serial sex abuser of young girls,” emphasizing that Brown believed his victims would never report him, thinking they would not be believed if they did.

During the court proceedings at Durham Crown Court, it was revealed that Brown had used the victims as a sexual substitute for his estranged wife, a motive that underscored the depth of his disturbed mindset. One of the victims suffered a nervous breakdown as a result of the abuse she endured. The court heard that one girl was subjected to a sexual act with Brown approximately 200 times, illustrating the extent of his repeated offenses.

The offenses spanned from 2003 to 2008, with Brown continuing his abusive behavior even after a victim reported the abuse in 2007. Despite being arrested and released on bail, he persisted in his misconduct. Brown’s lifestyle was also described as problematic; he was a heavy drinker, and his residence in Jarrow was known as a place where young people could gather freely, knowing there were no strict rules and that alcohol was readily available.

Brown, who has no fixed address, admitted to five counts of sexual assault and two counts of sexual penetration involving girls both under and over the age of 13. His defense attorney, Tom Moran, acknowledged the severity of the crimes but highlighted that Brown had cooperated with police and admitted guilt. Moran also noted that Brown had been a victim of past abuse himself, which might have contributed to his actions, though this did not excuse his behavior.

Judge Guy Whitburn QC sentenced Brown to 10 years in prison and imposed a lifelong ban on working with or living with children. The judge was succinct in his remarks, stating, “I’m not going to waste too many words on you. You know full well what you have done.” Additionally, Brown’s license period upon release was extended from five to twelve years, and he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities post-incarceration.