Pervert locked up for sex assault on girl, 12 (From York Press)

Craig Ions, 24, locked up for sex assault on girl, 12

10:40am Friday 17th August 2012 in News By Jennifer Bell, Crime reporter

A CHILD abuser has been jailed for 18 months and must be on the sex offenders’ register for ten years after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl in York.

Craig Ions, 24, was charged with assaulting the victim at a house in Huntington in August 2011.

Ions, of Smith Walk, Dewsbury, was accused of sexually assaulting the victim in a living room of the property during a party at the house.

He denied the charge but was found guilty by a jury following a trial at Leeds Crown Court in July this year and was sentenced yesterday at Leeds Crown Court.

Detective Constable Tracey Lumb, of North Yorkshire Police’s protecting vulnerable persons unit, welcomed the sentence and praised the victim’s bravery.

She said: “Craig Ions not only subjected his victim to a disgusting sexual assault but also put her through the anguish of a crown court trial by not admitting his guilt.

“Fortunately, a jury found him guilty and the victim has the justice that she deserves for being brave enough to tell someone what had happened to her.

“Ions’ sentence means he now has plenty of time to reflect on his vile behaviour and how it has impacted on an innocent young girl.

“I hope the victim and her family can now put this behind them and get on with their lives knowing that Ions is in prison where he belongs.”