Man jailed for 18 years for historic sexual offences

A man has been jailed for historic sexual offences against a woman and four girls.

Between 1996 and 2011, Gene Neville Wright subjected the victims to a number of incidents of sexual assault.

Wright was arrested and interviewed where he denied the allegations of sexual assault.

He was jailed for 18 years.

Detective Constable Sarah Scott of North Yorkshire Police’s Safeguarding Investigation Team in York, who led the investigation, said:

“First and foremost, I want to recognise the immense courage of the victims in this case who were forced to give evidence twice. This process was particularly traumatic for them and without their strength, bravery, and determination in supporting the investigation Wright may not be behind bars today, where he belongs.

“I am pleased that Wright has finally been brought to justice for these horrific offences. He raped the woman and stole the girls’ childhoods while continuing to live his own life without consequence."

“Throughout the investigation and trial, Wright denied every offence and accused all five victims of lying. He even singled out one victim, attempting to blame her and claiming she had orchestrated a conspiracy against him.

“Wright has demonstrated no remorse whatsoever. At one point during the trial, he appeared in court seemingly under the influence of alcohol, which resulted in his bail being revoked.

“All five victims continue to suffer lasting effects from his crimes. My hope is that today’s sentence gives survivors of abuse the courage to come forward. I want them to feel reassured that, no matter how much time has passed, we will listen, and we will act.”