Man jailed after being found guilty of twelve sexual and voyeurism offences against a child

A 41-year-old man has been jailed after being found guilty of twelve sexual and voyeurism offences against a child.

Alan Lee Pearson was arrested after a third party contacted Cleveland Police in April 2021, with concerns for a teenage victim.

The victim had disclosed that Pearson had carried out physical and sexual assaults over a number of years.

Specialist support was offered to the victim while enquiries got underway.  There were extensive allegations against Pearson, and CAVA called upon various colleagues within Cleveland Police, including specially trained officers who examined a number of electronic devices for indecent images and videos.

Our colleagues at the Crown Prosecution Service authorised charges against Pearson in March 2022 and he appeared at Teesside Magistrates Court.

On 2^nd May this year he was found guilty of twelve charges:

• Two counts of rape of a child under 13
• Six counts of assault by penetration
• One count of sexual assault
• Three counts of voyeurism

And today at Teesside Crown Court he was sentenced to 16 years in jail plus one year on extended licence.

Officer in the Case CAVA (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adult) Detective Sergeant Gemma Leeming said: “This was a horrific case of long term systematic sexual and physical abuse until the victim bravely told someone what happened.

“As soon as police received the report about his offences, we took all possible steps to preserve evidence and build a strong case against Pearson who consistently denied any wrongdoing. 

“The victim was courageous and determined throughout, and the investigation team shared a determination to bring Pearson to justice.  I welcome the sentence passed today and hope that the victim and family can now move on with their lives.

“I wish the victim well for the future.”

Safeguarding CAVA Chief Inspector Matt Murphy-King added: “I hope this sentence brings comfort to the victim and their family and it should reassure anyone with concerns for the safety of a child or young person that they can report to Cleveland Police in complete confidence. 

“My specially trained officers will investigate all allegations thoroughly and sensitively and support is always available to victims and their family during the investigation and court process.

“You can report concerns to Cleveland Police at any time via the 101 number, or online via our website.”