JASON CARTLEDGE SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS IN WAKEFIELD FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRLS
A man from Wakefield has received a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of historic sexual offences committed against young girls.On Friday, Jason Cartledge, aged 42 and residing on Charles Street in Wakefield, was handed a total term of 14 years behind bars.
This sentence comprises a custodial period of 10 years, along with an additional four years on extended licence, reflecting the severity and ongoing monitoring of his criminal activity.
The investigation into these crimes was initiated in 2019 when a woman came forward to report instances of non-recent sexual abuse.
The Wakefield District Safeguarding officers promptly took action, launching a detailed inquiry that identified a significant number of witnesses willing to provide accounts and evidence related to the allegations.
During the course of this investigation, a second woman also disclosed that she had been subjected to similar abuse by Cartledge in the past, leading to further probing into his activities.
Arrests relating to these allegations took place over several months.
In June 2019, Jason Cartledge was detained in connection with the initial complaint, and he was subsequently re-arrested in December 2020 following the second victim’s disclosure.
These arrests led to a series of charges, and Cartledge was formally accused of numerous sexual offences.
His court appearances culminated in a trial at Leeds Crown Court where he faced multiple allegations.
After a lengthy legal process during which both the prosecution and defence presented their cases, the jury found Cartledge guilty of six criminal charges.
These included three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child along with three counts of indecent assault on a child.
The verdict underscores the gravity of his crimes and the impact on the victims involved.
As part of his sentencing, authorities also mandated that Cartledge remains on the Sex Offender Register for life, ensuring continuous monitoring of his background and activities.
Additionally, he has been subjected to Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, which restrict his access to certain environments and activities, and a Restraining Order has been put in place to prevent any contact with his victims.
Commenting on the case, Detective Constable Kerry Wiles of West Yorkshire Police acknowledged the courage exhibited by the victims.
She praised their bravery in coming forward and enduring the distress of recounting such traumatic experiences, often reliving painful memories during the legal process.
Detective Wiles emphasized that Cartledge exploited the vulnerability of young girls, and expressed hope that the victims could find some solace in the outcome of the case.
She also highlighted the importance of reporting abuse, regardless of how much time has passed.
Wiles reassured the public that the police have specially trained officers prepared to handle such cases with sensitivity and diligence.
The message from the police is clear: anyone suffering from abuse, recent or historic, should feel confident to come forward, knowing they will be listened to and supported, and that justice will be pursued relentlessly.
