Identity of Swindon man jailed for child sex abuse revealed

Stephen Burrows, also known as Marc, of Fitkin Court, Redhouse, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on Thursday, October 24 after being found guilty of child sex abuse against two children, both aged under 13.

The 47-year-old’s crimes, which he denied at trial, included indecent assault, two counts of sexual assault on children, assault by penetration, and causing a child to engage in sexual activity.

Burrows assaulted his first victim when she was aged between 8 and 10 years old and he was staying over at her house. 

She had gotten up for a drink in the early hours of the morning when he sexually assaulted her, in an attack which changed her life.

He assaulted his second victim on two occasions when she was aged between 10 and 12 years old.

These crimes took place between 1999 and 2012 and Burrows “manipulated them both for his own sexual gratification," according to Detective Sergeant Chris Hughes.

An image of Stephen Burrows has now been released following his sentencing (Image: Wiltshire Police) Speaking out for the first time, one of the victims, who is now an adult, said: "He had taken that feeling of safety from me that you have as a child.

"I approached my mum to tell her what he had done and she never believed me.

"I still can't be on my own with a man that I don't know and I have to know where every CCTV camera is.

"I feel my life was taken away from me when this adult chose to do what he did to me as a child. He should get what he deserves."

Burrows' second victim added: "I felt that sexual activities with males was what I had to do even from 11 years old.

"He didn't just take my childhood from me, he has also impacted my relationships with other people.

"He's taken my self-worth, and confidence and made me feel incapable of being loved."

Stephen Burrows was sentenced by Judge Townsend to 15 years imprisonment and after his release, he will remain on licence for the remainder of the total sentence.

He has also been given an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.

Detective Sergeant Hughes has praised both victims for choosing to come forward and give evidence at trial.

"Burrows’ conviction will not reverse the damage he has done, but I hope that they are able to start moving forward.”

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