South Yorkshire man jailed for 16 years after twice fleeing child sex abuse trial

A Barnsley man who twice went on the run from a trial where he faced child sexual offences charges has finally been sent to prison.

Shaun Wightman has been jailed for 16 years after being found guilty of numerous sexual offences against a child and indecent images charges.

Investigating Officer Sarah Nelis said: “The victim in this case has shown tremendous courage in disclosing to her family and to our officers the horrific abuse she suffered.

“In complete contrast, Wightman has shown himself to be a coward that refused to accept responsibility for his crimes and went to incredible lengths to avoid the courts and facing justice for his obscene behaviour.

“He absconded not only once, but twice, before he was due to stand trial for the most horrific sexual abuse. He sexually exploited and abused his victim while she was under ten-years-old, and her bravery and stoicism throughout our investigation and then the delayed court process is truly admirable.”

Wightman, aged 57, had been due to go on trial in August 2021 charged with multiple counts of sexual assault, two counts of causing/inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, taking/making/distributing indecent images of children and breach of bail.

He absconded before this trial was due to start, prompting an appeal on our website and social media channels to locate him. He handed himself in to police in early 2022 and the trial was re-listed for October this year. Wightman attended the first day then again went on the run. He was found in Scotland on October 31 - by which time a jury had found him guilty in his absence after listening to the victim’s 'compelling and shocking' evidence.

IO Nelis continued: “It cannot be underestimated the significant impact that Wightman’s abuse has had not only on his young victim, but on her mother too. Their lives have been forever changed by his abhorrent crimes and I am pleased that he has finally been brought to justice and jailed.”

Wightman, formerly of Priory Road, Featherstone, was sentenced to 16 years in prison at Sheffield Crown Court on November 4.