COLIN FORD FROM CANNOCK AND OLDBURY REARRESTED AFTER BREACHING SEX OFFENDER CONDITIONS

In a case that has once again highlighted the ongoing concerns surrounding sex offenders and public safety, Colin Ford, a 44-year-old man with ties to both Cannock and Oldbury, was taken back into custody following a breach of his parole conditions. Ford, who had previously served time for serious sexual offenses involving two young girls aged 12 and 13, was released on license but was quickly found to be violating the terms of his supervision.

The incident unfolded after reporters from The Sun observed Ford engaging in inappropriate behavior in the street, where he was seen kissing a woman who was identified as a divorcée. Witnesses also saw him purchasing flowers, actions that raised immediate concerns given his known criminal background. The newspaper promptly notified the Probation Service about Ford’s activities, emphasizing that he was associating with the mother of a young daughter, which was a clear violation of the restrictions placed upon him.

Within just three hours of the report, authorities acted swiftly. Ford was located at his bedsit, which was situated in Oldbury, West Midlands, directly opposite a school—an area that raised additional alarm. He was subsequently detained and returned to prison on suspicion of breaching his license conditions. This rapid response underscores the seriousness with which authorities treat violations involving sex offenders, especially those with a history of offenses against minors.

It was revealed that Ford had initially met the woman he was seen with during a prison visit, where she was visiting another inmate. After his release, Ford reportedly began an affair with her, choosing to stay at his parents’ home in Oldbury before relocating to Cannock, Staffordshire, to be closer to her. Ford had openly disclosed his criminal past, including the offenses committed against young girls, to his new partner. Despite this, it is understood that officials had been aware of their relationship and had issued warnings to Ford, explicitly instructing him not to be alone with anyone under the age of 18.

Just prior to his re-arrest, Ford claimed that he had spent two weekends with his girlfriend, asserting that her daughter was never present during those visits. However, his mother, Margaret, expressed her frustration and blamed the media for her son’s return to jail, stating, “It’s The Sun’s fault my son is back in jail. You should be ashamed.” Conversely, an acquaintance of Ford’s criticized him harshly, saying, “Ford should never have been let within 100 miles of a girl.”

The National Probation Service declined to comment on individual cases, citing confidentiality and privacy concerns. Nonetheless, this incident has reignited debates about the management and monitoring of sex offenders, especially those with a history of offenses against minors, and the risks they pose to the community in areas like Cannock and Oldbury.