Man jailed for decades for sickening sexual offences

A man who subjected vulnerable young children to horrific sexual abuse has been jailed following an investigation by North Yorkshire Police.

In May 2023, officers arrested Nathan Woods-Springer, 37, from Sherburn in Elmet, in connection with sexual offences against children. A number of electronic devices were also seized from his home.

A search of the seized devices uncovered images of Woods-Springer committing sexual offences against children.

Woods-Springer was charged with six counts of rape and nine counts of sexual assault against children.

The victims were all very young at the time of the offences. Officers ensured specialist support was put in place for the victims.

Woods-Springer was also charged with taking and making indecent photographs of children, including hundreds of ‘Category A’ images – the most severe category.

He pleaded guilty to all the offences at York Crown Court on 6 September 2023 and on 19 February 2024.

On Friday 28 June 2024 he was given a 36-year extended sentence.

Detective Chief Inspector Carol Kirk, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Woods-Springer inflicted unimaginable horror and cruelty on very young, and very vulnerable, children. His actions are sickening, and he belongs behind bars.

“I would like to pay tribute to the investigation team who brought this harrowing case to court. Their dedication and professionalism ensured Woods-Springer has faced justice for his crimes. I would also like to thank the families, carers and professional partners for their support in looking after the victims throughout what has been a traumatic time. Most of all I commend the bravery of the victims.

“I hope the outcome gives confidence to victims of any kind of sexual abuse to come forward. It doesn’t matter how long ago it happened, we can and will prosecute the perpetrators.

“If you are a victim of sexual abuse – or you are aware of children who may be at risk – please report it to the police, whether it’s happening now or if it happened in the past. We will investigate thoroughly, and ensure you receive the information and support you need. Your courage in coming forward will protect other people from abuse, and help bring offenders to justice.”

Reporting rape or sexual assault

North Yorkshire Police

To report a sexual assault or rape to North Yorkshire Police, please call our non-emergency number 101, or 999 in an emergency.

If you are more comfortable reporting online, you can visit the reporting page on our website.

Other agencies who can help

If you do not want to report to police, there are other agencies who are able to offer support and advice.

IDAS is the largest specialist charity in the North supporting people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. You can find more information on their website www.idas.org.uk or contact them 03000 110 110.

Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) - Victims who would prefer not to go direct to the police and are not in immediate danger, can contact Bridge House, North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), on 0330 223 0362, email [email protected] or go to www.bridgehousesarc.org

You can also contact Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at www.supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.

Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.

For young people, Childline is available on 0800 1111 or at www.childline.org.uk

Details on how to contact North Yorkshire Safeguarding Children Partnership can be found on their website  - www.safeguardingchildren.co.uk

Details on how to contact City of York Safeguarding Children Partnership (CYSCP) can be found on their website - www.saferchildrenyork.org.uk