RICHARD STANTON OF KIDDERMINSTER JAILED FOR UNLAWFUL SEX WITH UNDERAGE GIRLS

In March 2004, Richard Stanton, a 37-year-old computer technician from Kidderminster, was sentenced to prison after admitting to serious sexual offenses involving under-age girls. Stanton engaged in a bondage sex session with a teenage girl, who was photographed wearing a dog collar and chained to a wall in Stanton's home. Prosecutor Samantha Powis told Worcester Crown Court that Stanton also filmed bedroom scenes, took photographs, and downloaded indecent images from the internet.

Stanton confessed to having sexual relations with a 13-year-old and a 14-year-old girl. He pleaded guilty to charges including unlawful sexual intercourse, possession of indecent photographs of children, taking indecent pictures, and indecent assault.

Justice Mr. Justice Astill sentenced Stanton to 18 months in prison, emphasizing that the most troubling aspect was Stanton's belief that he was not doing anything wrong. The judge stated, “The law must protect young girls getting involved with people of your age. They are not the best guardians of their own health.” He also condemned Stanton for taking advantage of under-age girls for his own sexual gratification.

Following his release, Stanton was ordered to register as a sex offender for five years and to be under supervision for two years on licence. Miss Powis explained that Stanton, who had no prior convictions, was apprehended last year after police raided his residence. They seized numerous items, including computer equipment, 18 photographs, and five videos depicting children.

Stanton admitted to having befriended girls and engaging in full sexual relationships with them, typically aged between 15 and 17. However, Miss Powis revealed that one girl was just 10 when he took her on a trip, and she lost her virginity to him at age 14, with the two reportedly having sex up to three times weekly.

Additionally, Stanton had a history of downloading indecent images of girls over several years. During his time in custody, a third girl came forward, alleging they had sex when she was 15. The court also considered prior offences related to his actions.

Defence lawyer Tim Harrington noted that Stanton's behaviour had significant personal consequences, including job loss and damage to his reputation, with potential repossession of his home. He described Stanton as generally hardworking and law-abiding aside from this misconduct, stating, “He was cooperative with police,” and that the images were solely for his sexual gratification.