ALAN THOMPSON FROM BINGLEY ESCAPES IMMEDIATE JAIL AFTER SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG BOY

In a case that has shocked the community of Bingley, a 64-year-old man named Alan Thompson was brought before Bradford Crown Court to face serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving a young boy. The incident, which took place in Bingley, involved Thompson engaging in inappropriate and illegal acts with a child under the age of 13, actions that he ultimately pleaded guilty to, sparing him from an immediate custodial sentence.

According to court proceedings, prosecutor David McGonigal detailed how Thompson would indecently touch the young boy in exchange for small sums of money, typically ranging from £1 to £3. The court heard that Thompson, who resides on Ash Terrace in Bingley, had encouraged the child to touch him in private on at least one occasion. However, when the boy refused to comply, Thompson did not press further, indicating a degree of restraint. Despite this, the acts were considered serious due to the nature of the abuse and the context in which it occurred.

The victim’s mother expressed her profound distress and anger over the incident, emphasizing the significant and lasting impact the abuse has had on her son. She described her son’s suffering and the emotional scars left by Thompson’s actions, highlighting the devastating effect on the young boy’s well-being.

Judge Andrew Hatton addressed the court, revealing that the young victim had kept the abuse bottled up for some time. It was only after confiding in a school friend that the police were involved. The judge noted that the boy was so overwhelmed by shame and embarrassment that he had written down what Thompson had done to him, rather than speaking about it openly. This detail underscored the profound psychological impact of the abuse.

During sentencing, the court acknowledged that Thompson had encouraged the boy to believe there was nothing wrong with his behavior. Despite this, the judge recognized that Thompson was of otherwise good character, but also noted his cerebral palsy and learning disability, which may have influenced his actions. The court considered these factors when determining the appropriate punishment.

Thompson was sentenced to two years in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time immediately provided he complies with certain conditions. Additionally, he was ordered to complete up to 50 days of rehabilitation activities under the supervision of the probation service. The judge expressed hope that Thompson could rehabilitate himself, given his acknowledgment of having difficulties related to young boys.

Furthermore, the court imposed a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order to restrict Thompson’s future conduct and ordered him to register as a sex offender for the next ten years. These measures aim to protect the community and prevent any recurrence of such offenses in the future.