MICHAEL HOLTON FROM LEIGH AND STOCKTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In December 2018, a disturbing case unfolded involving Michael Holton, a 24-year-old man from Leigh and Stockton, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl under the age of 13. The heinous nature of his crimes left a lasting scar on the victim and her family, prompting a detailed courtroom hearing that revealed the profound impact of his actions.

Holton admitted to four charges of sexual assault against the young girl, with the incidents occurring in the Stockton area in 2016. During the proceedings at Teesside Crown Court, it was disclosed that Holton repeatedly touched the girl inappropriately, actions that he later claimed to have forgotten. Despite his claims of amnesia, forensic evidence, including DNA analysis, confirmed his involvement in the assaults.

The girl’s mother provided a heartfelt statement that was read aloud in court, describing the devastating effects the abuse had on her daughter. She expressed her shock and disbelief, stating, "As a mum I never expected anything as horrible as this to happen to my young daughter. I struggle to understand how someone could do something like this to such a young child." She recounted how her daughter believed she was at fault, a misconception that caused her immense distress. The mother emphasized the innocence of her child, highlighting that she should not have had to endure such trauma.

The emotional toll on the young girl was evident, as she was reported to wake up screaming from nightmares and had become withdrawn, losing her previous outgoing nature. Her confidence is gradually returning, and her mother assured that she would continue to support her as she grows older.

Holton, who appeared in court from the dock, acknowledged that he understood his actions were wrong but attributed his offending to alcohol and drug use. He stated, “I understand what I did wasn’t right,” but could not recall the specific offences. A psychiatrist and probation officer expressed concerns about his ability to cope with prison life and warned that he might be vulnerable to being 'brutalised' within the prison system.

Judge Howard Crowson addressed Holton directly, noting that his offending was largely influenced by his intoxication from cannabis and alcohol. The judge remarked, “This seems to have happened because of the condition you put yourself in. You had enough insight to know this type of behaviour was wrong.” He also acknowledged the importance of the evidence presented, including the young girl’s prompt disclosure and the scientific proof that confirmed her account.

Holton was sentenced to three years in prison, with an additional year on licence. Furthermore, he was subject to a sexual harm prevention order that restricts his contact with minors and his employment involving under-16s. He will also be registered on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the need to protect vulnerable children from potential harm in the future.