Craig Elliott Sentenced for Sexual Assault on Girl Under 13
Craig Elliott, 32, has been found guilty of two counts of sexually assaulting a girl under 13 at Durham Crown Court. The offences took place in early October 2021.
Trial Drama: Defendant Missing, Suspected to Be in Ireland
The trial began on Monday amid confusion as Elliott failed to appear in court. Speculation surged that he might be hiding out in Ireland. Despite his absence, the court pushed ahead.
Elliott, formerly of West Crescent, Easington Colliery, was living in East Kilbride, Lanarkshire, while on remand. At a November plea hearing, he denied all charges.
Judge Slams Elliott with 40 Months and Sex Offender Registration
After the jury returned guilty verdicts on the third day, Judge James Adkin wasted no time. He sentenced Elliott to 40 months behind bars and ordered him to register as a sex offender indefinitely.
The Crown will seek extra safeguards, including a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order to protect the victim when Elliott is caught and returned to court.
Manhunt Underway: Arrest Warrant Issued
With Elliott still at large, Judge Adkin issued a bench warrant for his immediate arrest — no bail granted.
Anyone with information on Elliott’s whereabouts is urged to call 101.
