WIREDGOV

Thirty-eight men and two women are being investigated by the National Crime Agency in connection with serious child sexual abuse and exploitation offences in Rotherham.

As part of the latest investigation, which falls under Operation Stovewood, the individuals aged between 29 and 53, from Sheffield, Rotherham, Leeds, Dewsbury and Maidstone (Kent), have been arrested or interviewed by appointment over the last two months.

The offences relate to 13 victims who came forward alleging abuse between 1997 and 2015 when they were aged between 11 and 26.

All have been released under investigation or bailed while enquiries continue.

Carl Vessey-Baitson from the NCA yesterday said:

“Arresting such a large number of individuals as part of one Stovewood sub-operation shows our desire to listen to victims and bring offenders to justice is not wavering.

“Stovewood is a challenging and complex investigation, with victims and survivors re-living abuse that took place many years ago.

“To date we have engaged with over 410 victims and survivors and have arrested or interviewed by appointment 94 suspects, meaning this is the largest law enforcement investigation into non-familial CSAE ever undertaken in the UK.

“Conducting such an investigation can only be achieved with the support and coordination of our partners, and South Yorkshire Police and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council continue to provide invaluable assistance”.