ANTHONY BLOXHAM'S LEICESTER CRIME: FAILED APPEAL OVER 15-YEAR SENTENCE FOR SEXUAL PREDATOR BEHAVIOR
In February 2012, a disturbing case involving Anthony Bloxham, a resident of Leicester, unfolded in the courts, highlighting the severity of his crimes against vulnerable children.Bloxham, aged 65 and living on Keightley Road in the New Parks area of Leicester, was convicted of multiple heinous offenses involving the sexual abuse of minors.
Despite his plea of guilt, he sought to challenge his sentence, but his appeal was ultimately dismissed by the Court of Appeal in London.
Anthony Bloxham was sentenced to a substantial term of 15 years in prison at Leicester Crown Court last September.
The sentencing judge, Judge Michael Pert, described Bloxham as a “sexual predator” who had systematically exploited his young victims, treating them as “sexual commodities.” The gravity of his crimes was emphasized by the judge, who noted that the offending was of the “utmost gravity” and had caused profound harm to his primary victim, a young girl who was severely affected by her ordeal.
According to court records, Bloxham had indecently assaulted and raped one girl, while also abusing a young boy and a second girl over a period of several years.
The first girl, who was only 11 years old at the time of her abuse, revealed that she had been paid money to keep quiet about her experiences, which left her deeply traumatized.
The offenses spanned multiple years, with some incidents occurring many years apart, yet Bloxham had no prior relevant convictions.
His cooperation with police, admitting his guilt immediately when questioned, was also noted during the proceedings.
Lawyers representing Bloxham argued that his age and health issues, notably his diabetes, should warrant a reduction in his sentence.
They pointed out that he was in poor health and that the crimes, although serious, did not involve any other convictions.
Despite these arguments, the three senior judges—Lord Justice Hughes, Mr Justice Beatson, and Mr Justice Cranston—rejected the appeal outright.
They affirmed that the original sentence was appropriate given the severity and totality of the offending.
Mr Justice Cranston stated clearly, “In our view, the judge was entitled to impose an overall sentence of 15 years,” emphasizing that Bloxham could not reasonably object to the punishment considering the extent of his crimes.
The court upheld the conviction on multiple counts, including rape, unlawful sexual intercourse, indecent assaults, and acts of indecency involving the children.
This case underscores the serious consequences faced by individuals who commit such grave offenses against minors in Leicester and beyond.
