STEVE COOKE FROM HULL AND TAMWORTH FINALLY JAILED AFTER RUNNING FOR 3 YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE

In a significant development in the fight against child sexual abuse, Steven Cooke, a man with connections to both Hull and Tamworth, has been finally apprehended and sentenced after evading justice for over three years. Cooke, aged 35, who was previously residing on Cross Street in Tamworth before moving to Hull, was convicted at Stafford Crown Court in June 2001 on multiple serious charges, including rape, attempted rape, and four counts of indecency with a child.

Despite his conviction, Cooke failed to appear for his sentencing hearing, choosing to flee rather than face the consequences of his actions. His decision to go on the run was driven by his fear of the potential prison sentence he knew awaited him. For three years, authorities searched for him, but he managed to evade capture until last month, when he was finally arrested.

On the day of his sentencing, which took place on a recent Friday, Cooke was handed a prison term of nine and a half years at Stafford Crown Court. The court's proceedings revealed disturbing details about the abuse he inflicted on a young girl. Prosecutor Janette Williams told Judge John Shand that the abuse began when the girl was just seven years old and continued until she reached the age of 13.

Williams detailed that by the time the girl was 12, Cooke was engaging in full sexual intercourse with her. She also disclosed that Cooke threatened the girl to silence her, warning her not to tell anyone about the abuse. The victim described Cooke's manipulative tactics, claiming he dismissed her allegations as malicious, further complicating her trauma.

During the trial, defense lawyer Martin Liddiard argued that Cooke was fully aware of the severity of the charges he faced and was deeply frightened of the prospect of imprisonment. Liddiard emphasized that Cooke had since moved away from Tamworth, married, and had been living a law-abiding life throughout his time on the run.

As part of his sentence, Cooke was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life, a measure designed to monitor and prevent further offenses. His case underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in bringing offenders to justice, especially those who attempt to evade capture through flight. The court's decision marks a significant step in ensuring that justice is served for the young victim and highlights the importance of persistent pursuit in cases of child abuse.