COLIN CLARK SENTENCED IN SOUTHALL FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE AGAINST TWO SISTERS

In April 2007, a disturbing case unfolded involving a middle-aged man from Southall who was convicted of heinous sexual offenses against two young girls. The defendant, Colin Clark, a 55-year-old former technician at Brunel University, was sentenced to three years in prison following a trial at Isleworth Crown Court.

Clark’s crimes spanned several years during which he repeatedly assaulted two sisters, whose ages ranged from seven to 14 at the time of the abuse. The victims, now adults and one of whom has children of her own, bravely testified about the ongoing abuse they endured during their childhood. They recounted how Clark would often touch them inappropriately, including instances where he would sit the older girl on his knee while reading to her, and in some cases, when she was in bed. The younger sister described how Clark would push her against a wall and press himself against her, actions that left lasting scars.

The assaults took place during visits to the girls’ family home, which sometimes included holidays in the West Country. The girls’ mother was informed of the abuse, but her response was to try and minimize the situation, fearing the impact it might have on Clark’s family. This attempt to 'brush it under the carpet' delayed proper action, and Clark was not arrested until March of the following year.

When questioned by authorities, Clark denied any sexual contact with the girls, admitting only to two minor incidents involving the younger girl, which he acknowledged as inappropriate. He maintained his innocence regarding the more serious allegations. His legal counsel, Christopher Drew, argued that Clark had already suffered some consequences, noting that he had been ostracized by his family, stating, “He does express remorse for the damage he has done. This is a tragedy and for that he feels remorse.” Drew also mentioned that Clark had difficulty accepting the jury’s verdicts.

Judge Hezlett Colgan, presiding over the case, emphasized the severity of the crimes, highlighting the vulnerability of the victims given their ages and Clark’s position of trust. The judge pointed out that both women continue to suffer from the effects of his actions. As part of his sentence, Clark was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was permanently barred from working with children, reflecting the gravity of his offenses and the need to protect the community from potential harm.