DEREK STRINGER FROM SWINDON JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN SWINDON AND LEYSDOWN
In a case that has spanned decades, Derek Stringer, a 67-year-old man from Swindon, Wiltshire, has been sentenced to four years in prison for sexually assaulting a young boy during a holiday in Leysdown, Swale.The incident took place in September 1987, when the victim and Stringer were sharing a room during their holiday.
The assault involved Stringer forcing the boy to touch him inappropriately, an act that has left a lasting impact on the victim's life.
It was only in 2013 that the victim, now an adult, decided to come forward and report the abuse to the police.
Following this, authorities initiated an investigation into the allegations.
Despite Stringer's denial of the charges of indecent assault, the evidence presented at trial proved compelling enough for a conviction.
The case was brought before Maidstone Crown Court, where on December 16, 2015, he was sentenced to serve four years behind bars.
Detective Constable Richard Brown expressed his thoughts on the case, emphasizing the betrayal of trust involved.
He stated, “The victim in this case should have been able to trust Stringer, who instead abused that trust for his own sexual gratification.
He forced an innocent child to do something terrible against his will, which has had a profoundly negative effect on his life ever since.” Detective Brown also acknowledged the bravery of the victim, praising his courage in coming forward after so many years.
“I would like to pay tribute to the victim for having the strength to report what happened and for his ongoing resilience throughout the investigation and trial.
I also want to commend his wife, who has stood by his side and provided unwavering support during this difficult time.” The case serves as a stark reminder that law enforcement agencies like Kent Police are committed to pursuing justice in cases of historic sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the incident.
The authorities hope that this conviction will encourage other victims to come forward and seek justice, knowing that their reports will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.
