Former York man jailed for historic child sexual abuse
Ian Wrightson sentenced to over three years for crimes committed in early '90s
Ian Mark Wrightson, formerly of York and now living in Holmes Close, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has been sentenced to three years and four months in jail for non-recent child sexual abuse.
Appearing at Newcastle Crown Court on 5th August, the 54-year-old changed his plea to guilty, admitting to three counts of indecent assault and two counts of gross indecency with a girl under 14.
These crimes occurred between 1990 and 1992 when Wrightson lived in York, targeting a primary school-aged girl.
He would lure her to his room under the guise of playing computer games and, before each game, subjected her to sexual abuse.
Despite initially pleading not guilty, he altered his plea just before the trial was set to begin.
In addition to his prison sentence, Wrightson is placed on the sex offenders register for life and banned from working with children.
Victim's Courage and Support
The victim bravely expressed hope that her story might inspire others: "If my story can help someone in need, I would be so grateful that I had helped in a very small way by putting it out there and possibly giving them the strength to believe they can come forward themselves."
Detective Constable Helen Hewitt, who investigated the case, commended the victim's resilience: "Wrightson’s cowardice in denying the offences he committed until just before the trial, forced the victim to endure the build-up to the trial, reliving the horrific abuse she suffered."
The conviction is seen as a testament to the victim's strength and Hewitt expressed hope that it encourages other victims to come forward.
North Yorkshire Police remain committed to supporting victims and bringing predatory offenders to justice.
Resources and Support for Abuse Victims
If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, whether recent or historic, support is available:
Report via the North Yorkshire Police website or call 101.
For immediate danger, dial 999.
Contact North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0330 223 0362 or visit acerhousesarc.co.uk if you prefer not to approach the police directly.
Adults can contact the NSPCC Helpline at 0808 800 5000.
Young people can reach out to Childline on 0800 1111 or at Childline.
IDAS charity supports victims regardless of police reports.
Contact Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.