CRAIG TONG OF CROWLE JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN GRIMSBY
A woman who endured sexual abuse over twenty years ago has shared how the traumatic experience left her feeling ashamed and deeply affected.Her courage in speaking out came after justice finally caught up with Craig Tong, who has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison for a series of crimes committed against her during her childhood.
The victim, who must remain unnamed for legal reasons, told the Epworth Bells, "For more than 20 years I have been too terrified, ashamed, and traumatised to tell the truth about my years as an enforced sex toy for Craig Tong.
His selfish and abusive actions ruined my childhood and have had a lasting impact on my life.
I will never forget his appalling actions or the fear I lived in.
I hope now he will feel even a fraction of the disgust and pain I have endured." Craig Tong, 43, from Potts Lane, Crowle, was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison at Grimsby Crown Court after admitting to five counts of abuse, including two charges of having sex with a girl under the age of 13.
The crimes took place in the late 1980s, but it was only after his victim summoned the bravery to report her ordeal to police that an investigation was launched and the full extent of Tong’s crimes was uncovered.
Court proceedings revealed the victim initially believed she would not be believed if she spoke out about her abuse.
During the sentencing, Tong appeared in a dark suit, confirming only his name and address.
The court sentenced him to two 16-month prison terms for the two counts of sexual activity with a minor under 13, plus three consecutive sentences of eight months each for three counts of indecent assault.
All sentences will be served consecutively.
In addition to his prison term, Tong was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and is banned from working with children.
Following the sentencing, the victim expressed her gratitude, saying, "I want to sincerely thank the health and support workers, police, and crown prosecution staff who have helped me find the strength and confidence to come forward and reveal the torment I was subjected to as a child.
It is through their support that Craig Tong has been brought to justice and imprisoned for his heinous actions." She concluded, "I hope this case serves as a powerful message to other women who may be in similar situations, encouraging them to come forward and speak the truth about their experiences."
