Clyde Stevens

A man from Leigh has been convicted of multiple sexual offences spanning decades, with the abuse beginning in the 1970s. Clyde Stevens, aged 60, was found guilty by a jury at Luton Crown Court on Wednesday of nine counts of sexual abuse committed against the same victim. The offences occurred in Bedfordshire during the 1970s, starting when the victim was just nine years old. The court heard details of several instances of sexual abuse inflicted on the young girl over that period.

The case came to light after Stevens met up with his victim two months prior to the trial and sexually assaulted her again in November. Following this incident, the now-adult woman reported the historical abuse to the police, prompting a thorough investigation. Stevens was arrested and charged with the full range of offences, encompassing both the 1970s abuses and the recent assault.

Detective Constable Jenny Bryce, who led the investigation, described the case as one of 'sickening and recurring abuse'. In a statement, she said: 'I am pleased Stevens has been found guilty. I hope this verdict will be of some comfort to the victim and shows that it is never too late to report abuse. We absolutely will not tolerate any sexual abuse and we are committed to tackling these heinous crimes, supporting the victims and bringing those responsible to justice.' The conviction underscores the long-term impact of such crimes and the determination of authorities to pursue justice regardless of the time elapsed.

Stevens is scheduled to be sentenced at Luton Crown Court on March 10. The case was reported by the Leigh Journal, drawing on details from the court proceedings and police statements.