BRETT SAUNDERS SENTENCED IN NORTH NORFOLK FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

Brett Saunders, a man from North Norfolk with a disturbing history of child sexual abuse spanning nearly three decades, has finally been brought to justice. The 39-year-old offender was sentenced to a lengthy term of 21 years in prison, followed by an additional eight years on licence, during a court session held at King’s Lynn Crown Court on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

Throughout the proceedings, it was revealed that Saunders had previously admitted to committing 19 separate charges of rape and sexual assault. These heinous acts involved four underage victims and took place across the Norfolk region from 1995 through to 2024. The extensive timeline underscores the persistent nature of his criminal behavior and the difficulty in detecting such crimes over the years.

In addition to his prison sentence, Brett Saunders has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, a measure that aims to monitor and restrict his movements post-release. He is also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposes further restrictions intended to prevent any future offenses and protect the community.

Victims who testified during the trial shared deeply personal and painful accounts of the lasting impact Saunders’ abuse has had on their lives. One victim described him as “a master manipulator,” emphasizing how his lies and deceit played a significant role in their suffering. They expressed a sense of betrayal, stating, “We all fell for his lies.”

Another survivor recounted the emotional turmoil that resurfaced when the abuse was finally exposed. They said, “When it all came out, it was like all the wounds were re-opened at the exact same moment. It was like I was reliving all the abuse all over again. It proved I was never okay, I was just good at hiding.” This victim also reflected on the unsettling realization that “bad people look like you and me, they don’t have horns or green skin, you just don’t know.”

One more victim described how their childhood was stolen and their world was shattered, yet also expressed resilience by identifying as a survivor rather than a victim. The testimonies highlighted the profound and enduring scars left by Saunders’ actions, affecting not only the victims but their families as well.

Detective Constable Natalie Purcell commented on the case, expressing her admiration for the victims’ bravery. She stated, “I am astounded at the bravery of the victims in this case. Brett Saunders’ offending has spanned nearly 30 years and would have remained undetected had it not been for the courage of the first victim coming forward, which then gave further victims the strength to also come forward.”

She further emphasized the devastating impact of Saunders’ crimes, saying, “What Brett Saunders has done has traumatised and torn apart the victims and their families’ lives. We would like to thank them for their courage in reporting this to the police, and we hope that his incarceration will bring some measure of justice.”

Finally, Detective Purcell urged others who may have been affected to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed. “If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this case, please report it to the police on 101 (or 999 if it’s an emergency). You can also visit our online resources or contact Crimestoppers anonymously. Support is available for those in need,” she concluded, reaffirming the importance of community vigilance and support for victims of abuse.