Antony Birkin

Antony Birkin, a 40-year-old man from Grasmere Avenue in Newcastle, Staffordshire, was sentenced to nine years in prison at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court for a series of sexual offences against a young schoolgirl. The court heard that Birkin had sexually abused his victim, touching her inappropriately and inciting her to participate in sexual activities. Staffordshire Police were first alerted to the allegations in 2020, prompting an investigation into Birkin's actions.

Birkin denied all charges throughout the legal proceedings, claiming to police and maintaining during his trial that the victim was fabricating the story. Despite his denials, a jury found him guilty on all counts following a trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court. The charges included four counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, four counts of sexual assault, and two counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity. Judge Sally Hancox, presiding over the case, noted Birkin's continued denial of the offending behaviour but acknowledged his role as a hard-working family man who provided for his loved ones.

In mitigation, barrister Tomas Quinn highlighted Birkin's dedication to his family, describing him as a genuine family man, devoted husband, father, and son. Quinn emphasised Birkin's role as the primary carer for his ill father, who suffers from spondylitis, COPD, asthma, and arthritis, and visits him daily. He also mentioned Birkin's stepmother's battle with cancer and the emotional impact of the sentencing, stating that Birkin's visit to his father on the Monday night before sentencing might be the last time he sees him, as his father is unlikely to visit him in custody. Quinn added that Birkin worked up to 60 hours a week to support his family and their young son, urging the court to impose the least sentence commensurate with the seriousness of the offences while protecting victims and the public.

The judge accepted that this would be Birkin's first experience of custody and considered the impact on his family, including testimonials from his father-in-law and a friend who spoke highly of him. However, the severity of the crimes necessitated a substantial custodial sentence. In addition to the nine-year jail term, Birkin was made subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life. He must serve two-thirds of his sentence before being eligible for release. The case was reported by Stoke-on-Trent Live, with the sentencing occurring in late December 2025.