TIMOTHY STEWART FROM GLENCOE SENTENCED FOR INTERNET SEXUAL ABUSE IN TEESSIDE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community, Timothy Stewart, a 27-year-old man from Glencoe, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for engaging in sexual misconduct with a 14-year-old girl he met through online platforms. The incident highlights the dangers associated with internet interactions and the serious consequences of such actions.

Stewart, who was residing on Upper Town Road in Glencoe, was an architect working in London at the time of the offenses. His contact with the young girl began in July 2002, after which he maintained communication with her through various online channels. The girl’s family reported her missing, prompting a police investigation that ultimately led to Stewart's arrest.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Stewart had pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of indecent assault, one count of gross indecency, and the production of an indecent photograph of a child. As part of his sentencing, he was also ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, underscoring the severity of his crimes.

The court heard that Stewart and the girl exchanged personal details, such as their ages and mobile phone numbers, which facilitated their meetings. Evidence indicated that Stewart traveled from London to Teesside specifically to meet the girl in person. Their relationship escalated over several meetings, with the third encounter culminating in Stewart booking a seaside hotel in the area. Prior to their overnight stay, Stewart took the girl shopping for lacy underwear and condoms, indicating premeditated intent and a desire to engage in sexual activity.

Meanwhile, the girl’s parents had reported her missing to the police, which led officers to locate her in the hotel room, where she was found naked in bed with Stewart, who was in the process of dressing. The court was told that Stewart had previously warned the girl that if he was caught by the police, it would be considered child molestation, but he believed it would be acceptable if no one found out.

Anne Richardson, Stewart’s defense attorney, explained that her client was experiencing feelings of loneliness and was missing his family back in Northern Ireland when he entered the chat room and initiated contact. However, the court emphasized the gravity of his actions, especially given the potential for escalation.

Further investigations uncovered internet child pornography on Stewart’s computer, which was found at his fiancée’s residence in Chester. This evidence added to the concerns about his behavior and the potential risks posed to children.

Judge Leslie Spittle, presiding over the case, sentenced Stewart to 18 months in prison. In his remarks, the judge expressed concern that Stewart’s behavior appeared to be part of a pattern that could lead to more serious sexual offenses. He emphasized the importance of deterrence, particularly in cases involving the use of chat rooms to contact young girls, stating, “There must be an element of deterrent here for those who indulge in using chat rooms to make contact with young girls.”