Dean Martin Blackwell

Dean Martin Blackwell, a 54-year-old man now residing in Stokesley, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for committing a series of serious sexual offences against a young girl in Ryedale. The offences, which included two counts of rape of a child and four counts of sexual assault, took place many years ago, but came to light when the victim, now an adult, bravely reported the abuse to the police in 2022.

The case proceeded to trial in July 2024 at York Crown Court, where Blackwell was found guilty following the presentation of evidence detailing the traumatic experiences endured by the victim during her childhood. The court heard how Blackwell exploited and abused the girl, causing profound and lasting harm. On 27 September 2024, Judge [Name not specified in article] imposed the custodial sentence, recognising the severity of the crimes and the victim's courage in coming forward.

In addition to the 21-year term, Blackwell received an extended licence period of one year upon release, ensuring close monitoring of his activities. He has been placed on the Register of Sex Offenders for life and subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to protect the public from further potential harm. The investigation was led by North Yorkshire Police, specifically the Scarborough and Ryedale CID team, under Detective Sergeant Beverley Garbutt.

DS Garbutt commended the victim's resilience, stating: "The level of trauma and pain the victim has endured throughout her young life is difficult to comprehend. She has shown immense bravery in seeking and securing justice." She further emphasised the significance of the outcome for Blackwell, noting: "The sickening child abuse he committed all those years ago has finally caught up with him with this significant prison sentence. He has also been made subject to robust safeguarding measures to manage his behaviour for the rest of his days." This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address historical child sexual abuse and deliver justice for survivors.