Former Nissan Worker Found Guilty of Child Rape

A former employee of the Nissan Plant in Washington has been convicted at Newcastle Crown Court for rape and indecent assault of a child.

John Wilson, 59 years old of South Shields, was described as having a “brilliant career” at the plant, but elicited a dark secret in his behaviour as he attacked and then threatened a “child” of an unspecified age, inflicting “severe psychological harm” on her.

He also tried to bribe the girl from telling on him by buying her “Illicit treats” such as cigarettes, even as he made threats to her family.

He was sentenced to 17 years in prison, but must serve a minimum of 11. He has been ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life.

Despite being found guilty by the court, he continues to maintain his innocence.