Man who sexually abused eight-year-old boy in public toilet in Burgess Park, Southwark is jailed for 11 years

A man who kidnapped and sexually assaulted an eight-year-old boy has been jailed for 11 years.

Shane Upton, 24, of no fixed abode, was found guilty today at Inner London Crown Court of sexual assault of a child, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and kidnap with intent to commit a sexual offence.

The court heard how Upton waited in a public toilet in Burgess Park, Southwark in May last year when an eight-year-old boy walked in.

Upton held the boy against his will and committed sexual offences upon him, both in the cubicle and outside in the park.

A passer-by saw the victim being taken to the bush and called the police. Two officers arrived and chased Upton.

Nathan Paine Davey, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “This was extremely serious offending against a young boy.

“The victim bravely gave evidence at the trial via video link, meaning that he did not have to come face-to-face with his attacker again. Thanks to the courage of this eight-year-old boy, the court heard of the ordeal he went through.

“Upton will now be held accountable for his actions. Our thoughts remain with the victim and his family.”