STEWARD, DARREN, AND SEAN ONIONS FROM DEAL, DOVER, AND FOLKESTONE SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Deal, Dover, and Folkestone, three brothers have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in the sexual abuse of a young girl over a period of several years. The case was heard at Maidstone Crown Court, where the severity of the crimes and the impact on the victim were thoroughly examined.

Stewart Onions, aged 35 and formerly residing in Folkestone, received the longest sentence among the brothers, being sentenced to eight years in prison. He was convicted of three counts of indecent assault and one charge of indecency with a child. The court heard that Stewart Onions had engaged in multiple acts of sexual misconduct with the girl, including forcing her to have sex when she was still a virgin. According to court proceedings, he had kissed and fondled her before coercing her into sexual activity, claiming he was “just popping her cherry.” The evidence revealed that Stewart Onions had sex with the girl on several occasions, despite her attempts to resist. He also forced her to perform a sex act on him, further compounding the gravity of his offenses.

Darren Onions, aged 40 and a resident of London Road, Deal, was convicted of a single count of indecency with a child. He was sentenced to two years and three months in prison. Similarly, Sean Onions, aged 44 and from Beaufield Terrace, Dover, received a sentence of 15 months after being convicted of one count of indecency with a child. The jury, composed of seven women and five men, reached majority verdicts of 10-2 in favor of guilt for each of the brothers.

Judge Charles Macdonald QC emphasized the aggravating factors in the case, highlighting the high degree of harm inflicted upon the victim and the prolonged nature of the abuse. Despite their convictions, the brothers maintained their innocence, denying all allegations. The court noted that the brothers, all family men and previously considered to be of good character, could not provide any plausible explanation for why the victim would fabricate such accusations.

During the trial, it was revealed that the abuse occurred on separate occasions, with Stewart Onions having engaged in sexual acts with the girl on multiple instances. The court detailed how Stewart, now residing in Glasgow, had forced her into sexual acts, including penetrative sex, after initial kissing and fondling. The victim, who was a minor at the time, tried to resist but was overpowered due to Stewart’s strength. He also compelled her to perform a sex act on him, further illustrating the severity of his misconduct.

Charlotte O’Connor, representing Stewart Onions, a father of three, stated that there had been no intimidation or coercion involved in the case. She expressed her sorrow, saying, “His life will forever be blighted by these convictions,” acknowledging the lasting impact on his personal life. The sentences handed down reflect the court’s recognition of the serious nature of these crimes and the profound harm caused to the young victim.