70-YEAR-OLD SOMERSET MAN JAILED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE OVER FOUR YEARS

A man from Somerset has been jailed for sexually abusing a child over a four-year period. Stephen Minton, age 70, engaged in a series of crimes between 2004 and 2008. The victim, who reported the abuse to police in 2020, led to an investigation that resulted in Minton's arrest and subsequent charges. He was sentenced to eight years in prison at Taunton Crown Court, which sat at North Somerset Courthouse, last Friday (February 7). Minton was convicted of having sexual activities with a child, and two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. During the court proceedings, the victim expressed that the abuse had a lasting impact, stating: "I really struggle to build relationships because of being let down so much." Investigator Kate Chapman commented: "Minton took advantage of a position of power to repeatedly abuse a vulnerable child over a significant period of time. The victim deserves immense credit for the bravery in coming forward and reporting the abuse they suffered." Authorities also emphasized their commitment to supporting victims, with Avon and Somerset Police advising victims that they can self-refer to The Bridge Sexual Assault Referral Centre, available 24/7, and provided links to related support services.