STEPHEN HEATHER JAILED FOR GROOMING TEEN GIRLS IN DAWLISH AND TORQUAY

A man identified as Stephen Heather has been sentenced to prison after a series of disturbing incidents involving two underage girls. The offences took place in the coastal towns of Dawlish and Torquay, where Heather, aged 65, exploited the vulnerability of two teenage girls, aged 13 and 14, through manipulative and predatory behavior.

Heather would often give the girls lifts home from school, a gesture that initially appeared to be kind but soon revealed a darker intent. He demanded something in return for his acts of kindness, which included asking to see their underwear and touching both girls on their breasts, over and under their bras. These inappropriate advances occurred during rides and were part of a pattern of grooming that targeted girls experiencing difficulties at home, making them more susceptible to his influence.

In addition to his physical misconduct, Heather maintained contact through text messages, inquiring if the girls needed anything. However, when he became aware that police were investigating his actions, he attempted to destroy evidence by throwing his phone down the toilet, an act that underscored his awareness of guilt and an attempt to cover his tracks.

Despite denying two counts of sexual assault, Heather was found guilty by a jury at Exeter Crown Court in May. The court heard that Heather’s behavior was calculated and predatory, with Judge Peter Johnson sentencing him to three years and six months in prison. The judge also ordered Heather to be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life and imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts his future contact with girls under the age of 16.

Judge Johnson condemned Heather’s actions, stating, “You groomed girls when they were 13 or 14 by getting them in your car and buying them cigarettes and meals. The girls were clearly vulnerable and experiencing difficulties at home. You took full advantage and, having gained their trust, asked what you would get in return.”

He further explained, “You asked to see their underwear and touched their breasts over and under clothing. There is no suggestion it went further. You told them to delete your messages and not to tell their parents.” The judge criticized Heather for attempting to portray himself as a helpful figure, emphasizing that his true motive was to satisfy his sexual interests in young girls.

Prosecutor Mr. Nigel Wraith confirmed that the offences occurred during 2017 and 2018, primarily in Torquay, where Heather took the girls to fast food outlets and bought them cigarettes before requesting sexual favors. One of the victims provided a personal statement, revealing that she had to seek counselling due to a loss of confidence and feelings of insecurity caused by Heather’s actions. The case highlights the dangers of grooming and exploitation, especially when predators target vulnerable minors in seemingly innocent settings.