Hereford man jailed for child sexual offences

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Tuesday, 19 March 2019 18:39

A Hereford man has been sentenced to 10 years in jail for non-recent of child sexual offences, that took place in Leominster.

30-year-old Shawn Shellam pleaded guilty to one count of gross indecency with a child under 14 years old and 13 counts of indecent assault of a child under 14 years old at Worcester Crown Court last month.

The sentencing comes following a West Mercia Police investigation into allegations of sexual offences that happened between 2000 and 2002 when the two victims were aged between four and six, and the defendant was aged 12 to 14.

Detective Constable Mariann Wood said: "The nature of these offences have had an incredibly damaging effect on both victims and I hope that today's sentence gives them some form of closure.

"These were despicable crimes against two very young children who were robbed of their childhood and who now, as adults, continue to suffer with the memory of what Shellam inflicted on them.

"I would like to praise the support and courage of the victims throughout this investigation and hope that members of the public are reassured that we take all reports of sexual offences very seriously, irrespective of when they took place, and will ensure that they are thoroughly investigated."

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence is encouraged to report the incident to police, where specially trained officers will help victims with care and sensitivity, and will work to get the right result for them with their wishes in mind.

Alternatively, there are many agencies you can approach for help, guidance or support which offer a variety of services. Please see http://stoprapenow.co.uk/12932 for more information and for a list of the agencies available in your area.