STEPHEN ROSS FROM BROMSGROVE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN MALVERN AND BEYOND

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, Stephen Ross, a 59-year-old man residing in Shenstone Close, Bromsgrove, has been convicted of multiple sexual offences involving a young girl. The disturbing incidents took place over a period spanning from June 30, 2016, to December 1, 2016, and involved acts of inappropriate touching and grooming that have left lasting scars on the victim.

Ross, who attended school in Malvern, was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault against a girl under the age of 13. The court proceedings revealed the extent of his misconduct, which included repeatedly groping the nine-year-old girl and attempting to bribe her into removing her clothing so he could squeeze her breasts. The offences occurred at various locations, including in Malvern, highlighting the disturbing pattern of his predatory behavior.

Prosecutor Timothy Sapwell detailed the harrowing account of the girl, who was unable to be identified publicly for legal reasons. During an interview, she expressed her distress, stating that she just wanted the abuse to stop after Ross touched her breasts over her clothing and also touched her bottom. The court heard that Ross had also put his hands between her legs and tried to feel her there, but she managed to pull his hand away. Additionally, Ross had asked her to lift her top in exchange for a gift, then proceeded to touch and squeeze her breasts over her bra.

The impact of these traumatic experiences has profoundly affected the young girl. In her victim personal statement, she shared that she has become wary of older people, experiences anxiety when alone, and finds it difficult to socialize. She expressed her fear of going out, worried that something bad might happen to her again. Prosecutor Sapwell emphasized her hope that no other child would suffer as she did.

During the trial, Ross initially denied the allegations, entering a not guilty plea on March 11. However, on June 10, he changed his plea to guilty, thereby avoiding the need for the girl and other witnesses to testify in court. His defense lawyer, Richard Hull, acknowledged that Ross had taken responsibility and recognized the grooming and abuse of trust involved. Hull requested the judge consider a suspended sentence, citing the probation service's willingness to work with Ross.

Judge Nicolas Cartwright addressed Ross directly, noting that although he had no prior convictions, he could not be considered a man of impeccable character. The judge described the offences as sexual touching and repeated offending, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes. He highlighted a particular incident where Ross had effectively bribed the girl to lift her t-shirt, exposing her bra.

Originally, the sentence was set at three years, but due to the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, it was reduced to 32 months. Further, the judge applied a 20% reduction for Ross’s guilty plea, resulting in a final sentence of 25 months in prison. Judge Cartwright stated that such offences warrant immediate custody to serve as a deterrent and to protect the community.

In addition to the custodial sentence, Ross was subject to a sexual harm prevention order. This order restricts his contact with children and limits his access to devices capable of connecting to the internet. Importantly, he is prohibited from having any contact, direct or indirect, with the victim, ensuring her safety and well-being moving forward.