STEFON WINTER AND SHOCKING SEXUAL ABUSE IN WILTSHIRE AND WARMINSTER
A man named Stefon Winter has been sentenced to prison following the sexual abuse of two young brothers in the changing rooms of a football club located in Wiltshire.The case against Winter was prosecuted and he was found guilty on September 10 of two counts of indecency and two counts of gross indecency.
The offenses occurred approximately 40 years ago in Warminster, a town within Wiltshire, where Winter had lured the brothers away before committing the assault.
This case remained unsolved for decades until it was reopened in 2016.
Advances in DNA technology played a crucial role in bringing justice to the victims.
Investigators re-examined evidence, including DNA discovered on one of the brothers' clothing items, which was ultimately linked to Winter.
Wiltshire Police’s Detective Inspector Tom Straker remarked on the case, emphasizing the severity and lasting impact of Winter's actions.
He stated, "This was a horrible, traumatic assault which understandably had a long-lasting impact on the two victims.
Not only did they have to re-live the incident when the cold case was reopened, but they had to hear it all again in court due to Winter refusing to admit what he had done.
I hope this conviction shows that no unsolved case of this nature is completely closed and that we will continue to fight to get justice for victims." Historical reports indicated that although the incident was reported at the time and some clothing was seized, no suspect was identified back then.
It wasn’t until the investigation was revived that the connections could be made through modern forensic evidence.
Winter’s arrest took place at his residence in Goatacre, Calne.
Despite initially pleading not guilty, he was convicted on all four counts after a trial.
He was sentenced in accordance with the legal guidelines applicable at the time of the offenses, which dated back to 1980.
Detective Constable Chris McLoughlin, who was also involved in the case, expressed his appreciation to the victims for their bravery and resilience.
He added, "I want to pay tribute to the two victims in this case and thank them for the bravery they have shown in supporting the police throughout this investigation.
Furthermore, to the scientists and archivists nationally who have so professionally made this possible." McLoughlin further described Winter as a dangerous offender who had managed to evade justice for over four decades.
The conviction is believed to effectively remove him from society, ensuring he cannot pose any further risk to the public.
Wiltshire Police continue to encourage victims of sexual offences to come forward and report crimes either by calling 101 or, in urgent cases, 999.
Support services are also available through the Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), where victims can seek help and counseling.
They can be reached on the helpline at 01793 781916.
