Paignton man jailed for sexual offences
A man has been jailed for 12 years plus a further six years to be served on extended licence after admitting a number of non-recent sexual offences committed against children.
Craig Short, 53, of Woodland Mews, Paignton, was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday 14 January by Judge Stephen Climie and made subject of a sexual harm prevention order.
He had previously pleaded guilty to indecency with a child, four causing a child to watch a sexual act charges, six counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and four sexual assaults against a child.
Short’s offending involved one boy and one girl unknown to one another and took place when they were aged between six and 15-years-old.
During the sentencing hearing the court heard how Short sexually abused the male victim at a variety of locations. Short also showed the boy pornographic videos.
The second victim in the case made a disclosure describing how she’d also been sexually abused as a child by Short.
In interview Short denied any wrongdoing saying that the allegations against him were made up, however he later admitted his guilt.
Investigating officer DC Rachael Delaney said: “Despite having committed horrific sexual offences against two young victims Craig Short continued to go about his business for years.
“Thanks to the strength and courage of the victims Craig Short has now been brought to justice for his crimes.
“This case demonstrates that it is never too late to come forward and report sexual abuse, and that we will continue to thoroughly investigate all matters reported to us.”
Support available
If you have been affected by this article there is support available.
You can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.
You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
Advice and support can also be found at:
National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
For more information please visit: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault
If you suspect a child is in immediate danger from sexual abuse or exploitation call 999 now. If it’s not an emergency please use the “Report” button on our website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk or call 101. You can report child sexual abuse anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online https://crimestoppers-uk.org/
The Stop It Now charity provides an anonymous helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and can help if you are worried about your own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or have any concerns about another adult or young person: www.stopitnow.org.uk
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