Stockton pensioner jailed for historical child sex offences
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A Stockton pensioner who admitted historical child sex offences has been jailed for six years with one year on extended licence.
72-year-old Philip Meekings was arrested on 29th December last year after a professional from a partner agency contacted Cleveland Police on behalf of the victim-survivor.
Following enquiries by specially trained detectives from the force’s CAVA Unit (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adult) he was charged with three counts of sexual assault against a child under 13.
He was remanded in custody until his appearance at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on New Year’s Day and the case was then referred to Crown Court where he returned on 29th January, pleading guilty to all the charges.
Speaking after sentencing, officer in the case CAVA Detective Constable Elliott Shute said: “I am pleased with the sentence given to Meekings today. This - as well as his being subject to an SHPO (sexual harm prevention order), a restraining order and being placed on the sex offenders’ register - will protect his victim and the public from his predatory behaviour.
“My thoughts remain with the victim-survivor and their family as they continue to come to terms with what happened, and I hope they will find solace in this sentence.
“They and their family have displayed incredible character, finding the strength and courage to report what happened and I trust today’s sentence reassures them they are believed, their voice has been heard and that justice will now be served.”
CAVA Detective Chief Inspector Matt Murphy-King added: “This was a distressing case involving a vulnerable young victim who was abused by Meekings when they were a very young child, and my officers were absolutely determined to seek justice for them.
“I welcome today’s outcome at court and would repeat my assurance that anyone who has experienced sexual abuse - no matter how long ago it may have taken place - can report to Cleveland Police in confidence. We have specially trained officers who will support victims from the moment of reporting, throughout enquiries and to the conclusion of any court process.”