STEPHEN LAW FROM DOVER AND ELVINGTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN KENT

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Dover and Elvington, a man named Stephen Law has been sentenced to six years in prison for a series of heinous child sex offenses committed during the 1990s. The conviction follows a lengthy legal process that uncovered disturbing details about Law’s abuse of two young girls, leaving lasting scars on his victims.

Stephen Law, who resides on Milner Road in Elvington, was found guilty by a jury at Canterbury Crown Court on seven counts related to child sexual abuse. The crimes took place over fifteen years ago, but the impact on the victims has persisted into the present day. The court heard that Law’s abuse was both prolonged and repeated, with the offender actively discouraging his victims from speaking out. He allegedly told them that revealing what had happened would result in them being taken away, fostering an environment of fear and silence.

One of Law’s victims recounted feeling “dirty, worthless and used” after the abuse, describing the profound emotional damage inflicted upon her. Another girl, who was also victimized, was so overwhelmed by her experiences that she contemplated suicide. When the victims finally found the courage to disclose the abuse, Law attempted to deny the allegations, claiming that the victims had conspired against him. This denial was met with strong condemnation from the court.

Judge Heather Norton addressed Law directly during sentencing, emphasizing the severity of his actions. She stated, “These assaults were prolonged and repeated and you told your victims not to tell anyone – saying it was a secret. If they did, she would be taken away.” The judge highlighted the emotional toll on the victims, noting that one had expressed feelings of fear and worthlessness, while another had been so distressed that she considered ending her life.

Legal representative Christopher Sutton-Maddox provided insight into Law’s background, revealing that he struggles with literacy and has consistently denied any involvement in the crimes. “There is very little I can say on his behalf because this defendant throughout his trial denied any involvement in these allegations or in this criminality,” Sutton-Maddox explained. He added that Law’s persistent denial suggests he will likely maintain his innocence for the rest of his life.

Furthermore, the court was informed that Law’s history of allegations against him extends back to 1986, with some charges being cleared in the early 1990s. However, due to the passage of time and the inability to prosecute other cases, many of these allegations remain unresolved. The case underscores the importance of justice for victims of child abuse and highlights the long-lasting effects such crimes can have on individuals and communities alike.