Stafford man jailed over historic sexual offences

A Stafford man has been jailed for four years for historical sexual offences against a boy under the age of 16.

Andrew Butcher, aged 44, previously denied but was found guilty of two charges of indecent assault and one of gross indecency with a child under the age of 16, which relate to incidents in 2002.

At Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Wednesday (12 May) he received four years imprisonment for the indecent assault charges and six months for the gross indecency charge to run concurrently. He is also barred from taking part in a range of activities involving both children and adults and must give notification requirements of his movements upon release for an indefinite period.

Detective Sergeant Julie Pointon of Staffordshire Police’s Specialist Investigations Team said: “As with all of these disturbing cases, I would like to thank the victim for their courage and bravery in coming forward and helping us bring this case to the courts.

“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.