GARY STEWART OF WEST BROMWICH SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN SHOCKING INCIDENT

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of West Bromwich, a local man named Gary Stewart has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being convicted of raping a 14-year-old girl. The incident, which took place in July of the previous year, involved a calculated assault that has left the young victim and her family devastated.

According to court proceedings, Stewart, aged 34 and a father of three children aged 12, two, and 18 months, engaged in a predatory act that has been described as a betrayal of trust. The crime occurred after Stewart encountered the girl, who had been out with friends and was returning home. Instead of escorting her directly to her residence in the Langley area, Stewart drove her to a secluded location in his vehicle. There, he committed the assault in a manner that was both calculated and calm, before subsequently dropping her off at her home and even suggesting they meet again in the future.

The jury, after deliberation, returned a unanimous guilty verdict, despite Stewart’s initial denial of the charges. The investigation was led by Detective Constable Lee Trinder of Sandwell South CID, who provided insight into the case. He explained that Stewart claimed to have believed he had 'got lucky' after picking up the girl in West Bromwich’s High Street during the early hours of July 18 of the previous year.

Det Con Trinder emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Perhaps the girl was maybe a bit too trusting and she certainly should not have got into a stranger’s car like she did. However, Stewart was 20 years her senior, must have known how young she was, and he abused a position of trust by forcing himself upon her.” He further noted that although no violence was used during the assault, the girl was understandably terrified, and the emotional trauma has had a lasting impact on her and her family.

He added, “The girl and her family are totally devastated and it is going to take the family a long time to come to terms with it.” The case was further complicated by Stewart’s decision to plead not guilty, which resulted in the young victim having to give evidence via video link in court, adding to her trauma.

The incident unfolded after the girl and her friends had been enjoying an evening out, concluding their night at The Marksman pub located on High Street, Carters Green, West Bromwich. As they were walking towards a taxi rank, Stewart approached and made his move, offering her a lift. Foolishly, she accepted, which led to the tragic events that followed.

As part of his sentence, Stewart will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, a measure that underscores the severity of his crime and the community’s need for ongoing protection and vigilance.