BBC crime show Forensics: The Real CSI features the disturbing case from Birmingham tonight
Stephen Jeffries(Image: WMP)
The disturbing case of a predator who broke into a Birmingham home and sexually assaulted a young girl in her own bed will feature on the latest episode of a police crime series about the West Midlands tonight.
Forensics: The Real CSI will show how West Midlands Police investigators identified a suspect within days of the offence and arrested Stephen Jeffries, 35, from his home in Northfield on December 12, 2024.
Investigators were able to take samples from the victim’s clothing and use the DNA they found to help identify him.
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Digital forensics played a role further down the line, when data from a phone revealed disturbing online searches for attacks on sleeping victims, and rape.
The girl was not his only victim. He was further charged with sexually assaulting two other girls, with those offences dating back to between 2005 and 2024.
He targeted victims were as young as 11.
What happened to Stephen Jeffries after his arrest?
The 35-year-old was jailed for 22 years and was also put on the sexual offender register for life and given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order until further notice.
He was described by the judge as being considered a “most dangerous offender”.
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Det Sgt Nicky Simms, from West Midlands Police’s public protection unit who led the investigation, said: “The forensics, specifically the DNA forensics, were crucial in identifying the offender, and within four days of the offence he was arrested and he’s not been out of custody since.”
The girl’s parents spoke of their devastation in victim impact statements at the sentencing on March 19 at Birmingham Crown Court.
Her father, said: “Life is incredibly challenging for women, who regularly face a world where their safety and dignity are threatened.
“I deeply admire my daughter for her courage in standing up against this injustice; it truly reflects her remarkable strength and character.
“No parent should ever have to watch their child endure this kind of pain.
“While I know no sentence or decision can undo the harm that has been done, I hope the court will take into account the devastating impact this crime has had—not just on her, but on all of us who love her.
“I want justice, not just for my family, but also to send a message to others: that actions like this cannot and will not be tolerated.”
While her mother said: “Stephen Jeffries may have found her at her most vulnerable that night but what he did not realise is what a brave girl she truly is.
“The same strong girl that spoke up, she has done what most adults cannot face doing let alone a minor, her braveness is why we are all stood in this room today to ensure consequences are faced.
“No matter what sentence is given here today, no sentence will be as long as the one my daughter has been given as this will be with her for the rest of her life.”
Forensics: The Real CSI was filmed in direct co-operation with West Midlands Police and features five significant cases from the region.
This episode airs at 9pm tonight (29 March) on BBC Two with other episodes available on iPlayer.
If you’ve been affected by reading this and want some support or advice click here Report rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | West Midlands Police
