Victim speaks out as man jailed for 22 years following historical sex offences against children

A victim of a serial sex offender has spoken out after her attacker was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison.

The woman, who can’t be named for legal reasons, said she’ll continue to live with the damage caused by 47-year-old Paul “Cristy” James but that justice had been served and that he had been held accountable for his actions.

She also said that people, who find themselves in a similar situation to her, will be believed and taken seriously so should come forward.

James, who’s from Penkhull, will now spend 22 years in jail after being found guilty of six counts of rape against girls under the age of 16 between 1999 and 2007.

Following a trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in April 2021, James, who was described as a “sexual predator” by the Judge, was also convicted of five other counts of sexual assault against his three victims.

Impact statements were read out on behalf of all three victims with Judge Glenn acknowledging the physical and emotional impact James had on them. He emphasised their continued need for daily support as they were still suffering with depression, anxiety and flashbacks.

Detective Inspector Zoe Kelsall from Staffordshire Police said: “James was persistent, predatory and used his victims’ ages to his advantage as he carried out these despicable crimes.

“He abused his position of trust to isolate his victims in, what should have been, a place of safety.

“Those he targeted felt ashamed and as if they had been in the wrong. The reality was it was James who should be appalled for the impact he caused on these innocent individuals.

“As with all of these disturbing cases, I would like to thank the victims for their courage and bravery in coming forward and I hope this sentencing allows them to move forward with their lives.

“James being sentenced is one of the a number of convictions we have had for historical cases in recent months and we will continue to do whatever is necessary to support all victims of serious sexual abuse, no matter when the crimes against them were committed.”

Anyone who has suffered sexual abuse, or suspects others may be subject to sexual abuse, is urged to contact Staffordshire Police on 101.

Alternatively, the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through www.crimestoppers-uk.org.