Investigators praise victims of Teesside rapist brothers

Rapist brothers Maurice, 74, and 64-year-old John Edwards began their offending when they were young men and the survivor came forward as an adult to report the devastating abuse she suffered at their depraved hands.

Officers from the Cleveland Police CAVA (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults Unit) interviewed the couple extensively before charging them with various sexual offenses.

Maurice Edwards, of Tithe Barn Road, Stockton, was sentenced to 27 years and six months in prison after being found guilty of two counts of rape and indecent assault.

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And John Edwards, of May Street, Hartlepool, received an 18-year sentence with a license extended for a further year after being found guilty of two counts of rape and two counts of indecency with a child.

John Edwards (Image: Cleveland Police)

CAVA detective Constable Mel Phelps said: “This was a horrific case in which two brothers committed serious abuse – one against a child and the other when the survivor reached adulthood.”

“Their actions were hugely damaging to the survivors and unfortunately had a lasting impact.

“However, I cannot praise the survivors enough for their courage – throughout the investigation and during the trial itself.” The trauma of witnessing these devastating events must have been unbearable, but we were all determined to achieve justice and for it to ensure that both Edwards brothers receive treatment.

“I hope that the long sentences handed down to these men demonstrate the police and justice system’s view of such horrific crimes and that the survivors can move on with their lives.”

Both men were also given a lifetime restraining order banning them from contacting their victim and will be placed on the sex offenders register upon their release from prison.

Acting CAVA Chief Inspector Matthew Waterfield added: “I wish the survivor all the best for the future; Her courage and unwavering determination to seek justice after her unimaginable and harrowing experience is absolutely awe-inspiring.

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“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind anyone who has experienced any type of abuse in the past that they can contact Cleveland Police in complete confidence.

“We are committed to doing everything we can to achieve justice for survivors and we work very closely with specialist partner agencies to ensure all those affected are supported while we gather the best possible evidence to bring charges elevate.”

“We will listen to you, we will believe you and we will support you.”

People can report abuse online at any time of the day or night via the Cleveland Police website or by calling 101.