KEITH HOLLSHED AND HIS SHOCKING CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN NEWCASTLE AND STAFFORDSHIRE
Keith Hollinshead, a 65-year-old man from Water Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, has been sentenced to a decade in prison after being found guilty of multiple child sexual offences committed more than thirty years ago.The disturbing case only came to light when the victim, now an adult, approached Staffordshire Police in 2018, revealing the abuse after confiding in his wife.
Hollinshead was convicted at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court of six serious offences involving a young boy.
The court was told that the abuse spanned a period of five years, with the offences occurring decades prior to his arrest.
Despite the lengthy period since the crimes took place, the impact on the victim remains profound and deeply traumatic.
During the sentencing, Recorder Anthony Warner addressed Hollinshead at the court, describing the nature and progression of the abuse.
He stated, “What started with stroking his hair, his arms, and his legs moved to touching his genitals under his clothing.
He described your hand ‘like a crab’ moving down.” The court heard that the victim only fully realized the horror of what had happened to him when he attended sex education lessons in school, a revelation that has left him feeling suicidal and suffering ongoing psychological damage.
The judge emphasized the potential risk Hollinshead posed, noting, “I cannot say that there's no risk, or future risk, of you committing another serious offence.” Hollinshead had kept his terrible secret for many years until he finally confided in his wife in 2018, prompting the police investigation.
The court was shown heartfelt and harrowing testimony from the victim, who described the pain and suffering he endured.
As he gave evidence, the evidence of his trauma was palpable, with the victim revealing that he still frequently thinks about what happened, often feeling worthless and trapped in a downward spiral that led to multiple suicide attempts.
The victim also described the deviant nature of the abuse, saying it made him feel dirty and compelled to try to wash himself clean.
His wife has since endeavored to support him and help restore his sense of self-worth, emphasizing the importance of love and support amid the trauma.
Police officials and investigators have welcomed the outcome of the case.
Detective Constable Diane Sproston expressed her admiration for the victim’s bravery and resilience, commending him for coming forward despite the passage of so many years.
She assured the public that law enforcement remains committed to pursuing justice in cases of historical abuse, ensuring offenders are held accountable and victims receive the support they need.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for victims of abuse to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed.
The court’s decision reflects both the gravity of the offences committed by Hollinshead and the enduring impact of child sexual abuse on victims and their families.
