In 2019, the Offender Database reported that Stephen Pearson, then 50, of Southway, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, was handed a 28-year sentence at Warwick Crown Court. Pearson, described by the judge as a “dangerous monster,” was convicted of 11 counts of rape and multiple other sexual offences following a “vicious” campaign of abuse against three victims between 1992 and 2005.
The investigation by Warwickshire Police established that Pearson targeted girls aged six, 14, and 15. One victim was only six or seven years old when the abuse began. Pearson utilised “significant planning,” including the use of a “toxic substance” in a drink of squash to facilitate a “vile” initial assault. He frequently took the child to a garden shed that locked from the inside. On one “horrific” occasion, he “went for the record” by raping the girl 15 times in a single day.
Detection and “Compound Lies”
The “vicious” cycle of abuse was uncovered in 2017 when one of the victims walked into Leamington Spa police station with a sheaf of notes detailing her ordeal. This prompted Pearson’s arrest and led officers to identify two further victims. Throughout the two-week trial, Pearson “arrogantly” denied the allegations, telling “compound lies” in an attempt to escape justice.
Judge Andrew Lockhart QC emphasised that Pearson had made a “misery” of the lives of three women, leaving them in “ruins.” He noted that the victims continue to suffer from nightmares and flashbacks, with one victim describing every day as a “constant battle.”
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his “depraved” crimes in Warwickshire, Stephen Pearson was handed:
- Extended Sentence: 28 years in total.
- Custodial Term: 21 years in immediate custody (he must serve a minimum of 14 years before parole eligibility).
- Extended Licence: Seven years of supervision in the community upon release.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were imposed for life.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Pearson is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Warwickshire Police. Judge Lockhart classified him as “dangerous,” stating there is a significant risk of him committing further offences of child rape.
As a lifetime member of the Sex Offenders Register, Pearson must comply with strict notification requirements regarding his address and digital activity. Warwickshire Police state that the “vigour and sensitivity” of the investigation ensured this predator was removed from the community. Any attempt to contact his victims or breach his licence conditions will result in his immediate return to Warwick Crown Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.