Man jailed after admitting non-recent child sex offences

A man has been jailed for non-recent child sex offences after admitting carrying out abuse over a number of years.

James William Bond, aged 59, of Dickson Road, Blackpool, admitted a total of five serious offences, including the indecent assault of a child under the age of 16, at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in October last year.

Bond, formerly known as Stephen Raymond Shea, was sentenced at Coventry Crown Court on Monday (25 April) where he was jailed for a total of 12 years.

The court heard how Bond, who is originally from Stoke-on-Trent, began abusing the victim in the early 1980s.

The abuse had a profound effect on the now-adult victim, impacting their self-esteem and relationships well into adulthood.

Speaking following sentencing, Detective Constable Tracy Adams, of Staffordshire Police’s Child Protection and Exploitation Team (CPET), said: “The victim in this case showed great determination and courage in reporting what happened to them and breaking their silence on the abuse which they said continued to haunt them for years.

“I hope today’s sentencing will bring them some peace and enable them to continue to live their life knowing Bond has faced justice for his abhorrent, horrendous crimes.

“Survivors of abuse should know that we take reports of child sexual abuse extremely seriously, whatever age you are when you report it - you will be listened to, you will be supported and we will work to achieve justice for you.”

If you have been affected by sexual abuse, contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or call 999 in an emergency.