KEITH HOLLINSHEAD SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME

In a harrowing case that has shocked the community of Newcastle-under-Lyme, Keith Hollinshead, aged 65, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars after being found guilty of multiple child sexual offences. The disturbing crimes, which spanned over five years, only came to light when the victim, a young boy, confided in his wife and subsequently reported the abuse to Staffordshire Police in 2018.

Hollinshead, a resident of Water Street in Newcastle-under-Lyme, was convicted at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court following a detailed trial that uncovered the extent of his vile actions. The court heard that the offences began with seemingly minor acts such as stroking the boy’s hair, arms, and legs. However, these acts escalated to more serious and invasive touching, including contact with the victim’s genitals under his clothing. The court described the offender’s hand as moving “like a crab,” illustrating the disturbing nature of the abuse.

The victim, who was subjected to this abuse over a prolonged period, only fully understood the severity of what had happened to him when he attended sex education lessons at school. The emotional and psychological scars left by Hollinshead’s actions have been profound, with the victim reportedly feeling suicidal as a result of the trauma.

During sentencing, Recorder Anthony Warner emphasized the gravity of the offences and the ongoing risk posed by Hollinshead. He stated, “I cannot say that there’s no risk, or future risk, of you committing another serious offence.” The court was told that Hollinshead had kept his abuse secret for many years, only revealing it to his wife in 2018, which led to police intervention.

Recorder Warner also highlighted the emotional toll on the victim, describing the pain he endured and continues to suffer. “The pain he had suffered, and still suffers, was palpable,” he said. The victim has described feeling worthless and has attempted to end his life, often feeling dirty and in need of cleansing. His wife has since tried to help him rebuild his sense of self-worth and to feel loved again.

Hollinshead’s sentencing reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the lasting impact on his victim. The community of Newcastle-under-Lyme is left to grapple with the disturbing details of this case, which underscores the importance of vigilance and support for victims of child abuse.