Detectives pay tribute to survivor after their abuser was jailed for 15 years

Detectives have paid tribute to the survivor of child abuse after their abuser was jailed for 15 years.

Jack Anderson, 66, from Billingham appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday 21^st March after being found guilty of five historical sexual offences against a child.

An investigation by Cleveland Police's CAVA Team (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults) began in 2021 when the victim reported the abuse she suffered when she was a child and Anderson was arrested.

Anderson denied the offences but was subsequently charged and following a week-long trial was convicted on 7^th March 2024 of four counts of gross indecency and one count of indecent assault.

Temporary Detective Sergeant, Natasha Barber, said: “I would like to thank the victim and their family for their support and the strength they have shown during this entire process.

“This was a truly horrific case made worse by the fact that Anderson denied his crimes. The victim had to relive the trauma that Anderson inflicted on them.

“Whilst no sentence can change the past, hopefully it will provide some closure for the victim so they can continue with their lives knowing that Anderson is serving a lengthy sentence and is unable to harm anyone else.”

CAVA Detective Inspector Nicky Barker added: “I’d remind anyone who has experienced sexual abuse that it’s never too late to report to police; we have specially trained officers who will support you throughout. You can report at any time of day or night online via the Cleveland Police website or by phoning 101.”