ANTHONY DAWKINS FROM POULTON SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN PRESTON

In a case that has shocked the community of Poulton and the wider Preston area, Anthony Dawkins, aged 68, was sentenced to eight years in prison after being found guilty of multiple counts of sexual abuse against a young girl. The offences, which date back several years, involved a pattern of grooming and indecent assault that left a lasting impact on the victim, who was under the age of 16 at the time.

According to court proceedings, Dawkins, residing on Princess Avenue in Poulton, had engaged in a series of inappropriate behaviors that escalated over time. The prosecution, led by Peter Warne at Preston Crown Court, detailed how Dawkins initially began with inappropriate touching, gradually progressing to more serious acts of sexual misconduct. The victim, whose identity remains protected, endured significant psychological trauma as a result of Dawkins’ actions, and her suffering was described as profound and long-lasting.

During the investigation, Dawkins was arrested in 2012 and subsequently interviewed multiple times. Throughout these interviews, he maintained vehement denials, asserting that the allegations were unfounded and claiming, “it never happened in a billion years.” He also attempted to justify his actions by referencing his religious beliefs, stating that he was a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints and that he took his faith seriously. However, the presiding judge, Judge Robert Altham, dismissed these claims as “supreme hypocrisy,” emphasizing the gravity of the offences.

In court, Dawkins’ defense argued that he had been honest about his actions, acknowledging the torment he experienced due to guilt and remorse. Rosalind Emsley-Smith, representing Dawkins, described her client as someone who had been “candid and open” about the events that caused him “significant torment.” She highlighted that Dawkins had struggled to come to terms with his own behavior, accepting full responsibility and expressing deep regret. She stated, “He is absolutely consumed by shame. He has regret and remorse. He describes his own behavior as evil and despicable. He would wish to make his apology.”

Despite these remorseful statements, the court recognized the seriousness of the offences. The judge emphasized the severe psychological impact on the victim, noting that her life had been profoundly affected by Dawkins’ actions. As part of his sentence, Dawkins will be registered on the Sex Offender’s Register for life, reflecting the ongoing concern for public safety and the protection of potential future victims.