STEPHEN TRELEASE FROM BERE ALSTON PLYMOUTH JAILED FOR ABUSE ON CAMPING TRIPS AND TUTORING

In a case that has shocked the local community, Stephen Trelease, a man originally from Bere Alston and now residing in West Park, Plymouth, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against two young boys. The crimes spanned several years, with the victims ranging in age from 11 to 15 during the time of the assaults.

According to court records, Trelease, aged 54 at the time of sentencing, was found guilty of 14 separate charges that took place between 1973 and 1980. The allegations detailed a disturbing pattern of abuse that occurred during camping trips and private tutoring sessions, where Trelease exploited his position of trust and authority over the young boys.

One of the victims, who testified during the trial, revealed that Trelease had sexually abused him on numerous occasions, estimating the number of incidents to be between 75 and 100. These assaults took place over a period of several years, primarily during outdoor camping excursions, which Trelease organized or participated in as part of his role at a youth club.

During the sentencing hearing at Plymouth Crown Court, Judge Francis Gilbert QC condemned Trelease’s actions, stating, “You abused your position of trust and authority for the sake of gratifying your desires. The boys were young at the time, and you intimidated them into silence about what you had done to them so that you could continue to do it and escape criminal responsibility, which, of course, you have for many years.”

It was also revealed that Trelease had a prior criminal record, with convictions for indecent assault on young boys in 1981 and 1985. His career as a teacher was terminated following his first conviction, but he later attempted to reintegrate into the community by working in various roles, which ultimately did not prevent his reoffending.

As part of his sentence, Trelease was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life and was prohibited from working with children in any capacity. The court’s decision underscores the severity of his crimes and the breach of trust involved, leaving a lasting impact on the victims and the community at large.