Child sex offender from Devon jailed for 12 years

Craig Short will serve six years on extended license too

A South Devon sex offender has been jailed for 12 years as well as a further six years on extended license, after admitting several non-recent sexual offences committed against children.

53-year-old Craig Short, of Woodland Mews in Paignton was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday 14 January and 

Mr Short had previously pleaded guilty to indecency with a child, four causing a child to watch a sexual act charges, six counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and four sexual assaults against a child.

His offending involved one boy and one girl unknown to one another and took place when they were aged between six and 15-years-old.

The court heard how Short sexually abused the male victim at a variety of locations and showed the boy pornographic videos.

The second victim in the case made a disclosure describing how she’d also been sexually abused as a child by Craig Short.

In interview Short denied any wrongdoing saying that the allegations against him were made up, however he later admitted his guilt. 

Investigating officer DC Rachael Delaney said: “Despite having committed horrific sexual offences against two young victims Craig Short continued to go about his business for years.

“Thanks to the strength and courage of the victims Craig Short has now been brought to justice for his crimes.

“This case demonstrates that it is never too late to come forward and report sexual abuse, and that we will continue to thoroughly investigate all matters reported to us.”