A depraved predator has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for a series of horrific crimes that exploited the innocence of childhood. Damien Sonny Wilson, 26, systematically groomed a vulnerable seven-year-old boy before subjecting him to a campaign of sexual abuse.
The case, heard at Teesside Crown Court, took an even more sinister turn as the court learned Wilson not only raped his young victim but also corrupted him into becoming a drug dealer amongst his peers.
A Web of Corruption and Abuse
Wilson's manipulation knew no bounds. He coerced the primary school child into distributing cannabis to his fellow pupils, all boys aged between 10 and 13. This twisted act forced the victim to carry the immense psychological burden of involving his own friends in the predator's illegal activities.
The abuse came to light after the courageous young victim confided in a trusted adult, leading to Wilson's arrest. During the investigation, text messages were discovered on Wilson's phone that brazenly discussed the drug transactions with the child, providing damning evidence of his exploitation.
Justice Served at Teesside Crown Court
Facing the overwhelming evidence against him, Wilson, from Norton in Stockton-on-Tees, entered a guilty plea. He was convicted on multiple counts, including rape of a child under 13 and causing a child to engage in sexual activity.
In a powerful sentencing, Judge Jonathan Carroll condemned Wilson's actions as "a gross and wicked breach of trust of the utmost gravity". The judge highlighted the profound and lasting trauma inflicted upon the young victim, noting the additional agony of being forced to supply drugs to his schoolmates.
Wilson was handed an extended sentence of 21 years, comprising a 17-year custodial term and an additional four years on licence. He was also placed on the sex offenders register for life and made subject to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order.
Community Shock and Safeguarding Questions
This harrowing case has profoundly shocked the local community in Stockton-on-Tees. It raises urgent and difficult questions about how such predatory behaviour can go undetected and how to better protect the most vulnerable in society from such calculated evil.
The police have praised the bravery of the young victim in coming forward, emphasising that his courage was paramount in ensuring a dangerous offender was removed from the streets and brought to justice.
