Jailed!

A man investigated for non-recent child sex offences whilst he was already under investigation for watching pornography when caring for children has been jailed.

Stewart Tuck (24) was initially reported to Cleveland Police in October 2022 when a third party discovered he’d been watching gay pornography featuring males who purposely appeared to be underage, whilst looking after very young children.

He was arrested and interviewed by specialist officers from the force’s CAVA Team (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults) then bailed to allow further enquiries to take place however further evidence came to light that Tuck was also responsible for rape and serious sexual assaults on a young child 12-13 years before.

CAVA then extended their enquiries, and Tuck was subsequently charged with numerous offences including rape of a child, assault of a child by touching, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child and indecent images offences.

At Teesside Magistrates’ Court in April this year, Tuck pleaded guilty to all 11 charges and today he received a sentence of 7 year and 9 months. 

He also received a restraining order and will be placed on the sex offenders’ register.  When he is eventually released, he’ll be subject to stringent conditions (including monitoring).

Officer in the case CAVA Detective Sergeant Claire McNeill Said: “Tuck had an unhealthy interest in young boys and quite rightly a third party immediately reported concerns about his behaviour.

“Our enquiries took another turn when the earlier offences came to light, adding to the complexity of this case.

“We ensured the victims were safeguarded - and supported by our expert local colleagues at Arch - while we worked hard to gather evidence.

“I welcome today’s sentence which means another dangerous offender has been removed from the community. I hope it brings solace to the victims and also reassures the public that Cleveland Police will always do everything possible to protect vulnerable young children.”

CAVA Detective Chief Inspector Matt Murphy-King added: “This was another complex investigation but my officers were determined to seek justice for the victims and they worked tirelessly to secure evidence to enable Tuck to be charged.

“I too welcome the sentence given at court today and would urge anyone with concerns that a child may have been a victim of any kind of abuse to contact Cleveland Police on 101. No matter the amount of time which has passed, my specially trained officers will thoroughly investigate all reports.”