Jail for Middlesbrough man who sexually assaulted young girl

John Mace incited one child to engage in sexual activity on Christmas Day in 2008. On two other previous occasions he sexually assaulted another child.

An investigation into the 41-year-old began in 2021 when a report was disclosed to police.

This led to further offences being reported to police in relation to the sexual assault and inappropriate behaviour towards the other girl in 2011.

On Tuesday 9 June Mace appeared at Teesside Crown Court to be sentenced to 33 months for two counts of sexual assault on a child and one count of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was found guilty by a jury following a trial.

During the trial, the court heard how Mace would always be heavily intoxicated when he was around the girls.

On occasions with one girl, he would sit in close proximity, put his arms around her and make ‘strange’ comments such as asking to ‘taste’ the lip gloss she had applied as well as calling her ‘beautiful’ and ‘amazing’.

Following an investigation, Mace was arrested and questioned in custody before being charged.

Detective Constable Bonnie Dowson, from Cleveland Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People team, said: “Both girls trusted Mace, and he took advantage of them.

“His behaviour started by leaving the girls feeling awkward and uncomfortable. He wanted to see how far his behaviour and actions would go and ensure that he wouldn’t be found out.

“I want to take the opportunity to praise these women who came forward years later. It shows such strength, courage and bravery. You are believed, justice has rightly been served and I hope this will provide comfort to you both.”

f you, or someone you know, has been a victim of sexual assault, rape or abuse please report it to Cleveland Police on 101. If in danger always dial 999. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who has experienced a sexual offence can contact Teesside Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) regardless of whether or not the offence has been reported to the police. SARC provides 24-hour crisis intervention and a range of options. SARC works in partnership with local specialist services (such as Barnardo’s and Arch) and can access support on your behalf. SARC crisis workers are available on 0330 223 0099 at any time of day or night. 

Contact details for A Way Out, SARC, Barnardo’s and Arch are as follows:

A Way Out: http://www.awayout.co.uk

SARC: www.sarcteesside.co.uk

Barnardo’s: http://www.barnardos.org.uk

Arch: http://www.archnortheast.org

You can also find information, advice and support via the ‘when you are ready’ campaign When You Are Ready