PETER SMITH FROM MIDDLESBROUGH AND ST HELIER SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING BROTHERS

In a case that has spanned over a decade and a half, Peter Smith, aged 62, was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for heinous sexual offenses committed against two young brothers. The crimes came to light after one of the victims, now in his thirties, confided in his girlfriend about the abuse he endured during his childhood.

Smith, who was residing on Cleveland Street in St Helier, Jersey at the time of his arrest, was taken into custody last December. The investigation revealed that Smith had previously lived in Middlesbrough, specifically on Ainsworth Way, Spencerbeck. The allegations against him involved repeated sexual assaults that occurred when the victims were between 12 and 16 years old.

According to the prosecution, led by David Lamb, Smith was candid with police about the nature of his offenses, admitting that the abuse might have happened as often as once a week. The court proceedings detailed that Smith had engaged in these acts over a period spanning from December 1980 to December 1985. He pleaded guilty to five specific charges of serious sexual offenses related to this period.

During the sentencing at Teesside Crown Court, Judge David Bryant emphasized the gravity of Smith’s actions. He stated, “These are offences which now would be charged as rape because it is perfectly clear that you used this boy against his will for your own sexual gratification. These are very serious offences and can only be dealt with by a substantial sentence of imprisonment.”

In addition to his prison term, Smith was ordered to be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and the long-lasting impact of childhood sexual abuse, as well as the justice served in this instance to hold the offender accountable for his actions.