STEVEN MATTHISON FROM STANLEY SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE IN DURHAM

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Stanley, Durham Crown Court has handed down a severe sentence to Steven Matthison, a man convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses against a young child. The case, which came to light after the victim bravely came forward, revealed a pattern of prolonged abuse carried out under the guise of witchcraft and spiritual manipulation.

Matthison, a 53-year-old resident of Keir Hardie Avenue in Stanley, was accused of engaging in a disturbing grooming process that exploited the child's naivety and trust. According to court proceedings, he falsely claimed to be part of a coven and a quarter gypsy, using these fabricated identities to justify his manipulative and abusive behavior. He told the young victim that evil spirits had been angered by the child's actions, and that in order to rid the child of these supposed spirits, he would need to perform certain rituals, which ultimately involved sexual acts.

The prosecution, led by Dan Cordey, detailed how Matthison purchased tarot cards for the child, claiming they would help in exorcising the demons. These actions were part of what was described as a sophisticated grooming process designed to desensitize and control the young victim. The court heard that Matthison insisted the child undergo an initiation, which culminated in sexual acts and eventually full sexual intercourse. He also attempted to involve a friend of the victim in a similar initiation, but the friend refused to participate.

The abuse only came to light when the primary victim later disclosed the details, prompting an investigation. Matthison was initially charged with 18 offenses, including ten counts of rape, indecent assault, indecency with a child, and attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity. He was scheduled to stand trial in February but failed to appear, claiming he was hospitalized under a false name. His absence led to a bench warrant for his arrest.

Subsequently, Matthison was located and taken into custody. On the day his rescheduled trial was set to commence earlier this month, he changed his plea to guilty. The court heard mitigating arguments from Julian White, who emphasized that there was no evidence of similar offenses by Matthison in the past, as his criminal record was relatively minor.

Despite this, the court found that Matthison posed a significant risk of committing further serious offenses. As a result, Recorder Euan Duff imposed an extended sentence of 21 years under the 'dangerousness' provisions. This means that Matthison will be required to serve at least two-thirds of his sentence, amounting to 14 years, before he can be considered for parole. Upon release, he will be subject to a nine-year period of supervision on license.

In addition to his prison sentence, Matthison was issued a sexual harm prevention order that is valid indefinitely, and he is mandated to register as a sex offender for life. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the devastating impact of grooming and sexual abuse on vulnerable children, and it serves as a stark reminder of the need for ongoing protective measures within communities like Stanley and beyond.