STEPHEN SMITH FROM ROTHERHAM SENTENCED TO TEN YEARS FOR ABUSING TEENAGE GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the community of Rotherham, Stephen Smith, a 44-year-old man residing on Creighton Avenue in Rawmarsh, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for a series of heinous sexual offenses involving two teenage girls. The conviction follows a detailed trial held at Sheffield Crown Court in February, where Smith was found guilty on multiple counts, including seven charges of sexual assault, one count of sexual activity, and two counts of sexual activity with a minor.

During the sentencing hearing, Smith appeared in court displaying a smirk and an unapologetic attitude, despite the gravity of his crimes. The court also ordered him to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely upon his release, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. Smith’s actions, which spanned over a period of more than six years, involved taking advantage of two vulnerable young girls from Rotherham, exploiting their trust and innocence for his own gratification.

One of the victims, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, was subjected to rape at Smith’s residence on Creighton Avenue between 2009 and 2011, when she was only 13 or 14 years old. In addition to the assault at his home, Smith also engaged in inappropriate physical contact with her in his car. On another occasion, he lured her to his house under the pretense of dropping her off at her home, only to have sex with her there. These acts of abuse were uncovered during a police investigation that was initiated in 2014.

Detective Constable Rachel Morton, who led the investigation, described Smith’s conduct as “despicable” and praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward. She emphasized that their courage was instrumental in bringing Smith to justice, stating, “The investigation revealed the vile nature of Smith’s abuse and I would like to praise the two victims in coming forward to tell us what happened to them. They have been exceptionally brave and composed throughout this entire process, and without their courage, Smith would not have been brought to justice today.”

Det Con Morton also expressed hope that the sentencing would aid the victims and their families in beginning the process of healing. The court heard that Smith’s actions demonstrated a disturbing pattern of grooming and persistent exploitation, with no remorse or acknowledgment of his wrongdoing. Her Honour Judge Jacqueline Davies addressed Smith directly, condemning his behavior and attitude. She stated, “You have displayed a sexual attraction to female children, with elements of grooming and a strong element of persistence on your part. You exploited them for your own sexual gratification. You have shown absolutely no remorse, you are still in denial and are dismissive of your actions. These were serious offences, as are any involving young girls.”

Smith’s case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable children from predatory individuals within communities like Rotherham. His sentencing marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to seek justice for victims of sexual abuse and to hold offenders accountable for their despicable actions.