SOUTH TYNESIDE PREDATOR JAILED FOR ABUSE OF SCHOOLBOY ALMOST FIVE DECADES AGO

A man named Barry Houston has been sentenced for abusing a schoolboy nearly fifty years ago. Houston, now 63 years old, was convicted of multiple sexual offenses, including four counts of indecent assault on a boy under 14 and two counts of buggery of a boy under 16, with these crimes occurring before the Sexual Offences Act was enacted in 2003. The victim, who endured the abuse for many years, came forward in 2023 following a surprise encounter with Houston, which prompted him to report the incidents to police. Houston denied the allegations during police interviews earlier but was found guilty after a three-day trial at Newcastle Crown Court in April. Subsequently, he was sentenced to six years and six months in prison, and will serve an additional year on extended license post-release. Houston will be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and subject to a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). The victim expressed relief at the verdict, mentioning that he felt emotional and grateful for being heard after decades. Detective Constable Alastair Stewart led the investigation and highlighted the importance of victims coming forward regardless of how much time has passed, emphasizing that support remains available without a time limit. Houston’s sentencing reflects a significant victory for justice after years of silence.