Child suffered 'horrendous abuse' at hands of Teesside pervert

Thomas Wadsworth's victim spoke to police in 2022, to report the sexual offences committed in the 1990s.

The 54-year-old was handed a six-year prison sentence for gross indecency with a child and indecent assault on a child.

Detective Constable Suzanne Higginson from Cleveland Police’s CAVA (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults) unit said: “Growing up, the victim-survivor suffered serious and lasting effects from the horrendous abuse she suffered decades before but she found the courage to come forward to report - and her support for the police investigation was unwavering.”

Despite the challenges and complexities of the investigation because of the length of time which had passed, officers were able to secure charges against Wadsworth.

Thomas Wadsworth (Image: Cleveland Police)

Wadsworth, of Whitby Close, Skelton, east Cleveland, was found guilty at Teesside Crown Court earlier this month, returning on Friday, September 20 for sentencing.

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DC Higginson added: “I hope the fact that Wadsworth was found guilty and will now spend many years in prison is of some comfort to this brave woman as she continues to process what she went through as a very young child.”

CAVA Detective Chief Inspector Matt Murphy King added: “Wadsworth probably believed he would never be held to account for his heinous actions all those years ago, but from the moment the victim-survivor reported what he had done we were determined to do everything possible to get justice for her.

“We will always listen to anyone who comes forward to report any kind of abuse and we will believe them. Victim-survivors can also expect support from police or local expert agencies throughout our enquiries, during the court process and afterwards.”

Any victim of sexual abuse can report the incident to Cleveland Police at any time via the 101 number. People can also contact NSPCC if you have concerns for a child, or to report abuse.