Predatory paedophile sentenced to nearly three decades behind bars
A predatory pensioner is set to spend the rest of his life behind bars after being sentenced to nearly three decades of prison time.
In February, Trevor Cairns pleaded guilty to a staggering 47 offences against three victims, following a complex police investigation into his serial offending.
In 2018, one of Cairns’ victims came forward to out his childhood attacker, sharing that he’d been subjected to sexual abuse and raped by Cairns in the 1980s.
Previously believing he had been Cairns’ only target, he found the courage to speak up after he discovered that Cairns had been issued with a caution back in 1987 in connection with a separate allegation of a sexual offence.
The discovery gave him the strength to come forward and an investigation was launched by Northumbria Police's Safeguarding Unit.
Detective Constable Colin Ramshaw, who led the investigation, began building a file of evidence and, leaving no stone unturned, soon uncovered a horrifying picture of systematic abuse involving multiple victims.
The determined detective was able to trace two further victims, who had moved away from the North East.
Both victims bravely gave their own accounts of abuse and offered to do all they could to help put the prolific abuser behind bars.
Cairns, now 66, of Washington, was brought in for questioning and initially gave a prepared statement denying the offences.
After working together with three other police forces to gather the information needed from all over the country, Cairns was finally charged with multiple sexual offences, including 32 counts of rape.
In February, the case went to trial but six days into proceedings, with the evidence stacked against him, Cairns pleaded guilty to 47 offences at Newcastle Crown Court.
He was remanded in custody and yesterday (Thursday) he was sentenced to 28 years behind bars.
Detective Constable Ramshaw praised the victims for their unwavering bravery and believes this is a landmark case that will help other victims speak out against their abusers.
Det Cons Ramshaw said: "I am astounded by the resilience, the courage and the dignity shown by all three of Cairns’ victims.
“They have waited years for justice, some have waited decades, but their abuser is now behind bars and will hopefully die in prison.”
Det Cons Ramshaw added: "This has been one of the worst cases of prolific sexual offending I have ever seen.
“I really cannot praise the survivors enough – I believe they have given hope to others who have also suffered abuse and are yet to come forward.
“This case shows that is never too late to speak up and that justice is possible, no matter how much time has passed.
“If you’ve been suffering in silence, now is the time to speak up.”
Anyone looking to disclose a report of any kind of sexual abuse can do so by calling our officers on 101 or via our website. For information and support, visit our website.