Man Jailed For 6 Years For Raping Teen

9 January 2012, 14:07 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

An Ashington man's been put behind bars today after raping a 13 year-old girl

24 year old James Stewart Haig of Alexandra Road, was handed the six-year sentence after he groomed the teen before meeting up with her and raping her. 

Northumbria Police's Rape Investigation Team is stressing to parents and carers the importance of internet safety and keeping children educated and safe. 


(Pictured: James Stewart Haig)

Detective Inspector Paul Race of the Rape Investigation Team said:
"We hope this sentence will give some closure to the victim and her family. It has been a very traumatic ordeal. 

I urge any parent or guardian to be vigilant with your children's internet access and usage. The internet and social sites are,  in effect, faceless and unbeknown to some youngsters there are people out there who will target and abuse their innocence.

This isn't just about computers and laptops any more. The smart phone or tablet you may have bought your kids this Christmas is likely to have access to the internet and social outlets. 

Make sure you are able to maintain their safety on these sorts of devices too. 

We work with young people to help educate them on potential dangers of the internet and how to keep themselves safe. We also work closely with organisations such as The Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre (CEOP) to really encourage the message of internet safety. 

We hope this sentence shows that we will investigate any report of rape thoroughly to ensure justice is seen for these victims."