MICHAEL SANGSTER SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS IN DARLINGTON FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRL
In March 2018, a man from Darlington named Michael Sangster was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of serious sexual offenses involving a young girl.The case drew significant attention as the victim bravely shared her story in an effort to raise awareness and support other victims of similar abuse.
Michael Sangster, aged 40 and residing on Bardon Moor Road in Darlington, was found guilty in January of two counts of rape, two counts of sexual abuse of a minor, and possession of an extreme pornographic image.
The trial revealed the extent of his criminal behavior and the impact it had on his young victim.
Following the verdict, Sangster was handed a sentence of 14 years in prison, with an additional year of extended license, by Judge Edward Bindloss at Newcastle Crown Court.
During the sentencing, Judge Bindloss emphasized the severity of the crimes, stating, "This is so serious that only an immediate custodial sentence can be justified." He also noted that the psychological effects of such offenses often take many years to fully manifest and understand.
The judge referenced internet searches made by Sangster after the offenses, which indicated he had been contemplating his actions and considering his position regarding sexual offending against minors.
The victim, who chose to speak publicly about her ordeal, expressed her feelings of disbelief and relief.
She said, "I didn’t think I was going to be believed because it had happened so long ago, but I was." Her mother also shared her thoughts, stating, "She feels that justice has been done and that she can concentrate on moving forward now.
Nothing can erase what has been done and nothing can bring back her childhood, but she can relax and go about her life.
For her, the most important things were being believed and that he wouldn’t be able to do this to anyone else.
And I believe she has achieved this, if not forever at least for a long time." The court heard how the victim has been deeply affected by the abuse, suffering from nightmares, insomnia, and emotional distress.
She described feeling overwhelmed, losing her temper, and struggling with her relationships.
In her victim impact statement, she explained, "I feel like I’m at the point where I can’t do normal day-to-day things." She also revealed she has battled depression, tends to suppress her feelings, and keeps others at a distance.
In mitigation, Christine Egerton, representing Sangster, highlighted that he was of previously good character, aside from a caution received in 2015 for harassment.
She noted that Sangster accepted the court’s verdicts, had secured employment, and was making efforts to improve himself while incarcerated.
The judge ordered that Sangster serve half of his sentence in prison before becoming eligible for parole.
Additionally, Sangster was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order to restrict his future conduct and protect potential victims.
Overall, the case underscores the profound and lasting impact of sexual abuse on victims and the importance of justice in addressing such heinous crimes.
The community of Darlington is reminded of the importance of vigilance and support for victims of sexual violence, as well as the ongoing efforts to prevent such offenses from occurring in the future.
