Elswick pedophile John Weeden sentenced to ten years in prison

John Weeden, formerly known as John Hawthorn, 56, from Elswick in Newcastle, came to the attention of Northumbria Police in 2020 after a woman reported that he had sexually abused her on several occasions as a child.

An investigation was launched and Weeden was charged with three sexual offences.

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He denied any guilt but was found guilty by a jury in July this year.

On Monday (September 11), a judge heard a powerful statement from the victim in which she spoke of her lifelong trust issues and the ongoing devastation it has caused her.

She said: “The events have left a scar on me and changed me as a person.”

But looking forward, she added: “I have finally gotten the justice I have been waiting for for so long and I hope this man never gets the opportunity to ruin another child’s life like he did.” did to mine.”

After her impassioned testimony, a judge sentenced Weeden to 10 years in prison.

Detective Constable Lisa Herron, of Northumbria Police’s security branch, led the investigation and made a statement after the verdict.

She said: “I am really impressed by the victim’s bravery. As a child, her fear silenced her, and it took a lot of courage to report her abuse and share the details.

“But thanks to her strength and resilience, she saw her attacker charged, convicted and now sentenced for his heinous crimes.

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“I really hope this sentence gives the survivor a sense of justice and comfort.”

She added: “I also hope this shows others who have recently suffered abuse that it is never too late for justice.”

“You will be heard and supported and we will do everything we can to ensure your abuser is brought to justice.

“You are not alone and you do not deserve to suffer in silence while your abuser goes about his daily life unaccountable to anyone. We are always here.”