SEAN DIGGLE JAIL SENTENCE FOR HORRIFIC ABUSE IN BILLINGHAM

In a case that has shocked the community of Billingham, Sean Andrew Diggle, aged 43, was sentenced to an indefinite prison term following his conviction for heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse and assault of a young girl. The court heard that Diggle, a resident of Weardale Crescent in Billingham, had engaged in a series of disturbing activities that included forcing children to participate in dangerous and inappropriate games involving knives, BB guns, and strip poker.

During the proceedings at Teesside Crown Court, the prosecution, led by Michael Bosomworth, detailed the extent of Diggle’s misconduct. It was revealed that Diggle had not only committed acts of sexual assault but also raped a girl under the age of 13. The court was informed that he had caused or incited children to partake in sexual activities, a revelation that added to the gravity of his crimes.

One of Diggle’s victims, a young girl, emotionally recounted her trauma, stating, “When I think about what he did to me it makes me cry.” Her words underscored the profound impact of Diggle’s actions on her life.

In a disturbing turn of events, upon learning that police were investigating his conduct, Diggle attempted to take his own life by overdosing on pills. He was subsequently arrested the following day. During police interviews, he expressed remorse, saying, “It’s a horrible thing to have happened and it’s all my fault.”

Additional charges related to another young girl were brought against Diggle but were ultimately dropped. His defense lawyer, Brian Russell, explained that Diggle did not want either of the young girls to be burdened with giving evidence, emphasizing the emotional toll such proceedings could have on victims.

Judge Peter Bowers delivered a stern sentence, condemning Diggle’s actions as “the very worst of its kind.” He ordered that Diggle serve a minimum of four and a half years before being eligible for parole and mandated that he be registered on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life. The judge also highlighted the disturbing nature of Diggle’s denial of any sexual motivation, describing his mindset as “warped and distorted.”

Judge Bowers concluded by expressing serious concern over Diggle’s apparent lack of remorse and the dangerous, distorted thinking that underpinned his crimes, which have left a lasting scar on his victims and the community of Billingham.