Dwayne Spence

Dwayne Spence, a 39-year-old man previously residing in Stoke-on-Trent and later London, was found guilty at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court of committing a series of grave sexual crimes against children. The offences, spanning a six-year period, involved numerous victims aged between 11 and 13. Spence, who worked for E.ON and travelled extensively across the UK, including to Stoke-on-Trent, London, and Scotland, also volunteered at a football academy, positions that afforded him access to young people.

The court heard detailed evidence from prosecutor Anthony Longworth, who outlined the devastating impact of Spence's actions. Longworth stated: "The defendant poses a high risk of serious harm to children. There have been significant psychological and personal effects on the lives of the complainants and whether they are able to continue their studies and things they previously enjoyed doing." Spence was convicted on two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, two counts of attempted rape, three counts of sexual assault of a child, five counts of sexual activity with a child, and two counts of rape.

Despite being on bail awaiting sentence, Spence fled the UK, evading immediate incarceration. In his absence, Judge Graeme Smith imposed an 18-year custodial sentence, accompanied by a five-year extended licence period upon his return and an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. The judge condemned Spence harshly, declaring: "It’s clear Dwayne Spence is a paedophile and it’s clear he’s a coward by his absence. I’ve been doing this job for 11 years and this is only the second time a defendant has tried to evade consequences as a result of their conviction." Judge Smith praised the victims' bravery, noting they confronted the trial amid profound emotional and physical abuse, contrasting their courage with Spence's cowardice.

Mitigation was offered by Abigail Bright, who highlighted Spence's productive employment history, including voluntary work at the football academy alongside paid roles. However, the severity of the offences underscored the profound harm inflicted. The case, reported by Stoke-on-Trent Live on 24 March 2026, emphasises the ongoing pursuit of Spence, who remains a fugitive.