RYAN STEADMAN SENTENCED IN OAKHAM FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRLS

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Oakham, Ryan Steadman, a 20-year-old resident of Stud Road, Barleythorpe, was handed a six-year prison sentence after admitting to multiple serious sexual offences involving six underage girls. The court proceedings took place at Leicester Crown Court, where Steadman pleaded guilty to 11 counts related to the abuse of these young victims.

These charges encompass a range of disturbing acts committed between 2015 and 2018. Specifically, Steadman admitted to five counts of causing girls aged 13 to 15 to watch sexual acts, four counts of inciting girls in the same age group to engage in sexual activities, and two counts of sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 14. The allegations reveal a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several years, involving manipulation and exploitation of vulnerable minors.

Initially, Steadman faced a total of 39 charges across 11 victims, reflecting the gravity and extent of the offences. However, during the court hearing on December 14, he accepted responsibility for only a subset of these charges, which were formally admitted. The remaining 28 charges will remain on file, meaning they are not pursued further but have not been dismissed or proven false.

The investigation into Steadman's activities was triggered earlier this year when authorities received information from another police force. It was reported that a 14-year-old girl had traveled from another area to meet Steadman in Oakham after engaging with him via social media platforms. It was alleged that during this meeting, Steadman engaged in sexual activity with the girl, prompting further inquiries.

Following his arrest in February, Steadman was questioned by detectives but was subsequently released on bail while the investigation continued. As new evidence emerged, additional allegations surfaced, revealing a disturbing pattern of grooming and abuse facilitated through social media, particularly Snapchat, where Steadman befriended and exploited young girls.

At the sentencing hearing, the court imposed a six-year custodial sentence on Steadman, along with an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) to restrict his future conduct. Additionally, he was ordered to be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions aimed at protecting the community from further harm. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offences and the need for stringent measures to prevent any recurrence.

Steadman's case has garnered significant attention within Oakham and the surrounding areas, highlighting the dangers posed by online grooming and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable minors from exploitation. The community now awaits the sentencing of the remaining charges, which will be determined at a later date, as the legal process continues to unfold.