August 2022

Longbenton pensioner jailed for ‘vile’ sex attacks on boy three decades ago

A pensioner who abused a schoolboy years ago has finally been brought to justice and jailed for his “vile” crimes.

Brian Fisher’s victim lived with the trauma of what happened to him for three decades before finally plucking up the courage to report him.

Now the 75-year-old has been locked up at Newcastle Crown Court after admitting the sex attacks.

His victim, now an adult, bravely went into the witness box to face Fisher and outline the impact his offending has had on him.

He said: “The child I barely remember now was a happy, positive and trusting child. The child afterwards was introverted, bitter and unable to trust anyone.

“I couldn’t live with the pressure and stress of keeping quiet. I researched suicide methods as an alternative to coming forward. I’m glad I didn’t take that step.

“I will never forgive my abuser and no punishment is enough for the pain I’ve endured. This is the last time I will see my abuser and he has finally answered for his vile crimes.”

Fisher, of Blackfriars Way, Longbenton, North Tyneside, pleaded guilty to two counts of indecency with a child and one of indecent assault.

He was jailed for 45 months and must sign the sex offenders register indefinitely and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order.

Judge Julie Clemitson told him: “You sexually abused him on several occasions and that abuse has had a continuing and damaging effect on him. Yours were vile crimes as both the victim and your counsel have described them to be.

“They were committed for your own personal gratification at the expense of an innocent young boy’s life.”