Ex-Athlete Slapped With 19 Years for 90s Child Abuse
Gary Staines, 66, from Margaret Roding, has been jailed for 19 years at Chelmsford Crown Court. The former athlete abused a young girl over a nine-year stretch starting in 1991. Essex Police’s Quest team brought him down after the victim bravely came forward in June 2020.
Staines was convicted of four counts of indecent assault on a girl under 14 and one count of incitement to gross indecency. His trial ended in November with a guilty verdict. He returned to court on December 1 for sentencing, receiving 19 years behind bars plus an extra year on extended licence.
Victim’s Courage Praised by Police
Detective Constable Jane Egerton hailed the victim’s “immense bravery” throughout the complex investigation.
“These cases are never straightforward,” Egerton said. “Victims often delay reporting and think forensic evidence is needed. That’s not true. Staines manipulated his victim into thinking the abuse was normal. We cannot underestimate the damage caused.” “Victims worry about being believed or feel ashamed to come forward late. Our Quest team is trained to handle these sensitive cases with care. If you’re a victim, you will be supported and believed.” “We also work closely with Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) offering specialist, independent help.”
Help is at Hand for Survivors in Essex
Survivors of sexual abuse across Essex can get support from Synergy Essex. The Essex Rape Crisis Partnership includes three key organisations:
- Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse – mid and north Essex
- Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service – south and west Essex
- SOS Rape Crisis – Southend, Castle Point, and Rochford
Victims can self-refer for emotional support, specialist counselling, and advocacy, no matter when the abuse happened. Loved ones of survivors can also receive support.
For help, visit the Synergy Essex website or check out the Sexual Abuse Investigation Team page to learn more about Essex Police’s efforts to protect victims and catch offenders.
