Hartlepool man jailed after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting girl

Richard West, formerly of Grosvenor Gardens in Hartlepool, was sentenced to five years in prison last week after pleading guilty to three counts of sexually assaulting a girl under 13 by touching.

As well as the prison term, 65-year-old West was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register indefinitely at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, January 28.

It is understood that West had attempted to avoid being caught for his crimes by telling his victim not to tell anyone about what had happened.

Detective Sergeant Derric Wade from Cleveland Police has said that the victim and her family will be traumatised by West’s actions while thanking her for being brave enough to come forward and bring him to justice.

The investigating officer said: “Richard West took advantage of a child and continually sexually assaulted the victim over a period of time.

“West’s actions are completely disgraceful and unforgiveable. He even admitted to telling his victim to not tell anyone what he had been doing in a bid to prevent himself from being caught.

“The victim and her family will no doubt be traumatised as a result of his actions and no conviction or sentence will ever undo the terrible crimes he has committed.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victim and her family for being brave and coming forward, it has been an extremely painful process for them to endure.”

Support your Mail and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on Pools and new puzzles every day.

With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.

Click here to subscribe.