TRUCK DRIVER SEXUALLY ASSAULTED SLEEPING WOMAN BEFORE GOING ON TO ABUSE CHILD
A Northumberland-based truck driver named Steven Winters, who assaulted a sleeping woman, later committed child sexual offences several years after the initial incident.The court was told that Winters' attack took place near Newcastle, where the victim awoke to find him standing over her; he made a nonchalant comment, saying, "I didn't know you were awake." The woman described feeling violated and said the experience robbed her of her peace of mind.
Winters' criminal activity escalated when he then sexually assaulted a child in separate cases.
Now 47 years old, Winters has been given a prison sentence exceeding seven years.
He appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on Wednesday via video from HMP Holme House to be sentenced following his guilty plea, entered just before his trial was due to start.
Earlier that year, Winters had been sentenced to five years and six months after being convicted of two child sex offences in North Tyneside.
Prosecutor Glen Gatland pointed out that these child offences came years after Winters' assault on the woman.
The victim requested her identity be protected and described her feelings of violation and loss of inner peace.
Defence solicitor Susannah Proctor stated that Winters has dedicated his life as a truck driver and father, demonstrating good work ethic and engaging in rehabilitative efforts, including working in prison’s catering department and participating in a rehabilitative programme.
She also acknowledged his acceptance of guilt.
Judge Sarah Mallett remarked on the severe impact on the woman and issued an indefinite restraining order.
Winters received a two-and-a-half-year sentence to be served consecutively with his sentence for the child sex offences.
