A Stoke-on-Trent man has admitted a string of sexual offences, including the rape of a 17-year-old girl in a county park earlier this month.
Arrest and charges
Jason William Heaton, 53, of Hulme in Stoke-on-Trent, was taken into custody following the victim's account to police. The incident occurred on 2 July at about 7pm in Berryhill Fields, off Dividy Road between Bentilee and Berryhill, the court heard.
On 27 July Heaton entered guilty pleas to four charges. They were:
- Two counts of rape of a woman
- One count of attempted rape
- One count of causing a female aged 13 or over to engage in sexual activity and kidnap
Court proceedings and next steps
Heaton has been remanded into custody and is due to be sentenced on 30 September. No further details of bail or protective conditions were provided in the material released so far.
Police comment and investigation
“This was a particularly abhorrent attack on the survivor, who has shown immense bravery in coming forward and supporting our investigation.”
The comment came from Detective Constable Samantha Gales, underlining the force's view of the seriousness of the offence and the role of the victim in enabling the case to progress.
Local context and practical information
Berryhill Fields is a public open space used by local residents for walking and recreation. Attacks in such areas can cause concern among neighbours and regular users; the police statement emphasises the importance of victims coming forward to assist inquiries.
Support is available for people affected by sexual violence. Anyone with information relating to this incident who has not yet spoken to police is encouraged to contact Staffordshire Police. Victims and witnesses can also access local support services for advice and counselling.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Jason William Heaton, 53, of Hulme, Stoke-on-Trent |
| Location | Berryhill Fields, off Dividy Road (between Bentilee & Berryhill) |
| Date of assault | 2 July (around 7pm) |
| Pleaded guilty to | Two counts of rape, attempted rape, sexual activity causing a female 13+ and kidnap |
| Next court date | Sentencing on 30 September |
Further updates will be provided as the case progresses through the courts. Anyone with concerns about safety in local parks should consider reporting these to the local policing team so they can be addressed.
