29/09/2015

Four Jailed For 70 Years For Child Abuse

Two men and two women have been jailed for a total of 70 years after being found guilty of 49 child sexual abuse and cruelty offences.

The group was found guilty following a three month trial, where charges included rape, sexual assault and ABH, carried out against five victims all aged under 13 at the time.

Chief Constable Simon Bailey welcomed the significant sentence, saying: "Child sexual abuse is one of the police service's greatest challenges and this case exemplifies just how appalling and depraved that abuse can be.

"I welcome the sentences passed at Norwich Crown Court today, but would point out that even though the offenders are now serving significant custodial sentences their victims are going to have to live with the impact of their abuse for the rest of their lives."

Today at Norwich Crown Court (Monday 28 September 2015), Judge Nicholas Coleman set the following sentences:

Marie Black, 34, formerly of Atkinson Close, Norwich, found guilty of 23 offences including rape, conspiracy to rape and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity was sentenced to life imprisonment with a tariff of 24 years. 

Jason Adams, 44, formerly of Aspland Road, Norwich, found guilty of seven counts including rape, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and cruelty was sentenced to 24 years in prison.

Michael Rogers, 46, formerly of Romford in Essex, found guilty of 14 counts including rape, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and cruelty was sentenced to 24 years in prison.

Carol Stadler, 60, formerly of Atkinson Close, Norwich, found guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm but cleared of nine other charges was sentenced to six months in prison.

Black, Adams and Rogers were placed on the Sex Offenders Register and Adams and Rogers were given a Sexual Harm Prevention Orders. 

Judge Coleman, commented on the sentences given, saying: "In my judgement your conduct amounts to child sexual abuse of the most serious kind. I have to say that the case is the most harrowing one it has been my misfortune to try."

(MH/LM)

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