2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (Shannon Brown)
A monster who raped and sexually assaulted three children has been jailed for 27 years. Stephen Sanders of Raleigh Avenue, Torquay , was found guilty by a jury of three indecent assaults, six rapes and two charges of indecency with a child in the 1990s and 2000s. Sanders, who also goes by the aliases Stephen Wolfe, Collins, Rice and Hubbard, committed the offences in Exeter and other locations.
During the trial, the court heard how Sanders raped and abused the first victim on a number of occasions, his actions having a devastating effect on her. He used paganism as an excuse to abuse her and also mentioned demons, spirits and ghosts. Sanders abused the second victim, gave him chocolate and told him it was their little secret.
He also committed a sexual offence on a third victim when she was under 10. The 62-year-old, appearing for sentencing at Exeter Crown Court on Wednesday, April 23, was described as akin to a monster by judge David Evans, who said: “Monsters do not exist but you, as cruel and heartless as you are, come close.” Sanders was jailed for 27 years and must sign the the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Officer in the case DC Mike Smith said: “Stephen Sanders is a calculating rapist and child sex offender who targeted three young victims over a number of years. It is thanks to their immense courage in speaking about what happened and giving evidence in court that Sanders is finally behind bars. “He manipulated his victims for his own twisted sexual gratification and showed no consideration for their wants and wellbeing.
“He has never showed any remorse for the offences he has committed. We hope this sentence will allow the victims to move forward with their lives. We will continue to thoroughly investigate all child sex offences reported to us, regardless of when they took place.
” Devon and Cornwall SARC helpline: 0300 3034626 Devon and Cornwall SARC's website can be found here Self-referrals to SARC can be made here NHS website offers advice here Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services: 01392 204 174 NSPCC: Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice: 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch with NSPCC for support. Childline is available for young people: 0800 1111 Childline's website can be found here.
