CHARLES MASON, THE HORRIFIC CHILDREN'S CLOWN FROM HODDESDON AND TURNFORD, SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Hoddesdon and Turnford, Charles Mason, a 65-year-old former children's entertainer and clown known as Marmaduke the Clown, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against young boys.

The court heard that Mason exploited his role as a children's entertainer, using his magic tricks and a collection of exotic pets to lure children to his residence in East Hertfordshire. His home became a place where he manipulated and abused his victims under the guise of entertainment, creating an environment that appeared innocent but was, in reality, a trap for vulnerable children.

According to the evidence presented at St Albans Crown Court, Mason would ply his young victims with cannabis and ginger wine, substances that lowered their inhibitions. He also subjected them to viewing pornography, further degrading their innocence before engaging in sexual acts with them. The court was told that these acts spanned over a period from 1985 to 2002, involving five victims, with one boy being systematically abused from the age of 11 until he was 16.

Mason appeared in court to face sentencing after being convicted of 16 counts of indecent assault. The court's verdict was based on a thorough investigation that uncovered his pattern of abuse over nearly two decades. Mason had initially denied 18 counts of indecent assault, which took place while he was residing in both Turnford and Hoddesdon. He was acquitted of one charge, and the jury was unable to reach a verdict on another.

Judge Marie Catterson delivered a stern judgment, condemning Mason for his exploitation of children’s trust and innocence. She remarked, “You earned your living as a children’s entertainer and kept a menagerie of exotic animals. Youngsters were keen to visit you, and you exploited that for your gratification.”

The judge emphasized the profound and lasting impact Mason’s actions had on his victims, describing the effects as “profound and incalculable.” The victims experienced shame, a loss of confidence, and one even wrongly blamed himself for the abuse. Judge Catterson highlighted Mason’s emotional manipulation and exploitation of their youth and naivety, which left deep scars.

As part of his sentence, Mason is required to register as a sex offender indefinitely. Additionally, he must adhere to a sexual harm prevention order for the next 20 years, ensuring ongoing restrictions and monitoring to protect the community from further harm.