Swindon Man Jailed for Historic Child Abuse
Stuart Eager, 70, from Lady Lane, Swindon, has been sentenced to four years behind bars after a jury found him guilty of three counts of indecent assault. The shocking offences date back to 1988 and took place at Budds Farm in Havant.
Victim Was Just 11 Years Old
The court heard that Eager, who denied the charges, abused a boy aged 11 or 12 on three separate occasions. He let the child sit on his lap and steer his car around during the attacks. Portsmouth Crown Court delivered a unanimous guilty verdict, with Judge Ashworth adding indefinite licence conditions to the sentence.
Detective Speaks Out on Impact of Abuse
“The horrific manipulation and abuse perpetrated by Eager has had a significant impact on this young boy’s life,” said Detective Sergeant Julia Nicol, who led the investigation.
“He was only 11 or 12 at the time, which makes these offences all the more shocking and depraved.”
“The victim, now a grown man, carried this terrible secret for decades. He struggled with life, identity, school and agonising mental health issues. His childhood was stolen, and his adult years have been about trying to come to terms with the trauma.”
“It’s only in recent years he found the courage to come forward. I wholeheartedly commend him for that.”
“There are no doubt many others suffering in silence. To those victims, I want to say: you’re not alone. We are here to listen and support anyone who wants to report abuse.”
Speak Out – Support Is Available
If you or someone you know has been a victim of child abuse, help is at hand:
- Call police on 101 to make a confidential report
- Adults can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000
- Young people can reach out to Childline on 0800 11 11
Don’t suffer in silence – speak up and get the help you deserve.
