Pensioner spared prison after sexually abusing underage girls

PENSIONER SPARED PRISON AFTER SEXUALLY ABUSING UNDERAGE GIRLS

A churchgoing pensioner from Nottinghamshire sexually assaulted two underage girls - telling one of them “come on let me touch your boobs”.

Nottingham Crown Court heard how Charles Prince's sex attacks on the two girls left both with their mental health “seriously affected” with one being so frightened she had to be taken to hospital having suffered a severe panic attack.

The 77-year-old groomed the victims with sweets and presents, then sexually assaulted them by touching their breasts and telling them not to tell anyone to avoid getting into trouble.

After the victims confided in authorities, Prince initially admitted to having a “dark side” he couldn't control, acknowledging his wrongdoing by stating “I am shattered inside, I know what I have done.” He pleaded guilty to charges of sexual assault and was sentenced to a two-year community order, which includes 60 rehabilitation sessions.

Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for five years and to abide by a five-year sexual harm prevention order.

The judge noted his good character prior to the offenses but emphasized the gravely unacceptable nature of his actions, especially given his age, and highlighted that such conduct profoundly impacts victims, stating “Children need to be protected, your conduct was completely unacceptable.” The sentencing aimed to address his problems rather than impose immediate imprisonment, citing public protection and the importance of addressing underlying issues while recognizing the shame and damage caused to his reputation and the victims.

The incident was reported to the police, with prosecuting stating the abuse occurred when one girl was under 16 and the other under 11, involving repeated grooming behaviors, threats, and physical touching.

Both victims provided impact statements expressing ongoing fear, trauma, and mental health effects as a result of his actions.