Rotherham Predator Found Guilty of Abuse Against Two Girls
A man has been slammed guilty today (24 July 2024) of sexually abusing two young girls in Rotherham during the 2000s.
Neil King Convicted in Major Abuse Probe
Neil King, 51, was convicted after a high-profile trial at Sheffield Crown Court. He faces 17 charges including rape, attempted rape, and sexual activity with a child. The case is part of Operation Stovewood, a sweeping investigation into non-familial child sexual abuse in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013.
The victims, both teenage friends, came into contact with King after social services placed one girl with his on-off partner, now deceased. King manipulated their trust, luring them with money, gifts, alcohol, and drugs before abusing them.
CPS and Investigators Praise Victims’ Bravery
Samantha Thompson, CPS Specialist Prosecutor, said: “Neil King groomed his victims with money, alcohol, drugs, and gifts, then subjected them to rape and attempted rape. The lifelong trauma these girls face is devastating and has shattered community trust in Rotherham.”
“We thank the victims for their courage in coming forward. This conviction sends a clear message: the CPS will relentlessly pursue justice for children abused by offenders, no matter how long ago it happened.”
Senior Investigating Officer Stuart Cobb of the National Crime Agency added: “King thought he’d get away with it, but the bravery of the victims and our investigation caught him out. It’s never too late to report child sexual abuse. Help is out there, and specially trained officers will support victims through the process.”
Dedicated Unit Tackles Complex Child Abuse Cases
To tackle difficult cases like this, the CPS has set up an Organised Child Sexual Abuse Unit. This specialist team builds strong cases to boost successful prosecutions and shares expert knowledge to bring offenders to justice.
Quick Facts
- Neil King (DOB: 05/11/1972) found guilty of 17 counts of child sexual abuse including rape at Sheffield Crown Court.
- The victims’ identities are protected under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992.
- Samantha Thompson prosecutes serious organised crime for the CPS Serious Economic and Organised Crime International Directorate.
