YORKSHIRE SEX OFFENDER JAMES STAVES SENTENCED TO 11.5 YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
A notorious sex offender from Yorkshire has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of eleven and a half years after committing heinous acts of sexual abuse against two young girls, causing them profound emotional trauma that will likely affect them for years to come.James Staves, aged 66, who was previously residing on Dalwood Close in the Bransholme area of Hull but has since moved to Southwood Avenue in Cottingham, was found guilty of multiple serious charges.
These included the rape of a girl under the age of 13, two separate counts of sexually assaulting another girl under 13, and inciting her to engage in sexual activity.
The court heard that Staves’s actions were driven by a disturbing sexual interest in children, which he allowed to dominate his behavior during these grave offences.
Prosecutor Graham O'Sullivan detailed the disturbing nature of the crimes, describing how Staves sexually abused one of the victims by removing her clothing, kissing her on the neck and face, and then raping her.
The second girl was subjected to inappropriate touching that left her visibly frightened.
During the incident, Staves asked her, “Do you want me to stop, then?” to which she responded, “Yes, I don’t like it,” indicating her clear discomfort and desire for the abuse to cease.
Despite his efforts to prevent the victims from reporting the abuse, the second girl eventually disclosed what had happened.
Staves was subsequently arrested, but during police interviews, he chose to remain silent, refusing to answer questions.
His defense attorney, David Godfrey, acknowledged that there were concerning aspects in a pre-sentence report, noting that Staves expressed genuine shame and bitter regret for his actions.
Mr.
Godfrey emphasized that the offences were “grave” due to their devastating impact on the victims, describing the pain inflicted as “profound and long-lasting.” He also highlighted Staves’s medical issues, including mobility and heart problems, and a stroke he suffered in 2019, which had a significant effect on his health.
The defense argued that custody would be particularly challenging for Staves, given his health conditions and lack of prior convictions.
Mr.
Godfrey stated that Staves recognized the wrongfulness of his actions and was remorseful, working through the process of understanding his guilt.
Judge Alexander Menary acknowledged the severity of the offences, emphasizing the long-lasting effects on the victims.
He pointed out that the first girl had to endure the trauma of being wrongly accused of fabricating her story, which added to her suffering.
The judge also noted the disturbing parallels between the two incidents, with Staves allowing his sexual interest in children to overpower his judgment once again.
The second girl was compelled to pre-record her evidence for a scheduled trial, an act that Judge Menary described as “to your shame.” Ultimately, the court accepted Staves’s guilty plea, and no trial was necessary.
In his sentencing remarks, Judge Menary stated that Staves would be an older man by the time he is released from prison, and he would be subject to an extended license period of one year upon release.
Additionally, Staves will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.
The case underscores the devastating impact of child sexual abuse and the importance of justice for the victims from Yorkshire.
