STEPHEN TATE SENTENCED IN ACCRINGTON FOR DESPICABLE SEXUAL ASSAULT AT HYNDBURN LEISURE CENTRE

A man identified as Stephen Tate has been handed a prison sentence after committing a deeply disturbing sexual assault on a teenage boy with significant learning difficulties. The assault took place at the Hyndburn Leisure Centre in Accrington during January 2022, according to reports from Lancashire Police.

Stephen Tate, aged 69 and residing on Gordon Street in the Church area, was accused of engaging in sexual activity with a person who has a mental disorder that impairs his ability to make informed choices. Despite denying these allegations, Tate was found guilty following a trial held at Preston Crown Court in December. The court subsequently sentenced him to six years in prison during a hearing on Tuesday.

The victim’s family has expressed profound distress over the incident, emphasizing that the trauma inflicted will have lifelong repercussions. They highlighted the lasting psychological scars that the assault has left on their son. According to police reports, the victim confided in his father immediately upon arriving at the leisure centre, revealing the assault. The father attempted to intervene directly, but Tate ignored his efforts, entered his black BMW vehicle, and drove away from the scene. Despite Tate’s departure, the victim’s father was able to note down the vehicle registration details and promptly reported the incident to authorities.

In a statement, the victim’s family described the severe impact the assault has had on their son’s mental health, confidence, and self-esteem. They expressed concern that he has been deprived of opportunities to seek professional counseling due to feelings of shame and fear stemming from the incident. The family’s statement underscored the profound and lasting damage caused by Tate’s actions.

Detective Constable Vicky Heys condemned Tate’s conduct, highlighting the vulnerability of the young victim and accusing Tate of exploiting this vulnerability for sexual gratification. She also criticized the offender for subjecting the victim and his family to a traumatic court process, forcing them to relive the ordeal.

As part of his sentencing, Tate was ordered to register as a sex offender and was barred from working with children and vulnerable adults. Additionally, he is prohibited from entering saunas, steam rooms, or solariums in public places for a period of ten years, reflecting the court’s efforts to protect the community from further harm.