FAKENHAM CARE WORKER DANIEL HOWES JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON SEVEN-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN NORWICH

In a case that has shocked the local community, Daniel Howes, a man with a previously unblemished reputation as a dedicated care worker, has been sentenced to prison after being convicted of serious sexual offenses committed during his teenage years. The incidents took place in the late 1980s and early 1990s, involving a young girl who was only seven years old at the time.

According to court records, Howes, who is now 41 years old, was just 16 when he committed three indecent assaults against the young girl. These offenses occurred over a single evening, spanning the period between mid-1989 and the end of 1990. The court heard that the assaults escalated in severity, including acts of sexual touching within the girl’s own bedroom, a deeply troubling breach of trust and safety.

Throughout the proceedings, it was revealed that Howes had advised the girl “not to tell” anyone about what had happened, a common tactic used to silence victims and prevent disclosure. Despite these dark episodes from his youth, Howes went on to establish a career in care work, where he was regarded as an “exemplary” professional. His reputation in the community was built on his dedication and caring nature, which made the revelations even more shocking.

The victim, who has since grown into an adult, struggled with the trauma of her childhood experiences. It was only later in life that she felt compelled to come forward and disclose what had happened to her, a decision that ultimately led to Howes’s conviction. The court heard that her experiences had a lasting impact, affecting her well-being and mental health.

Following a trial, Howes was found guilty of the charges and appeared at Norwich Crown Court yesterday to face sentencing. He was sentenced to a total of 27 months in prison. In mitigation, it was argued that Howes, who resides on Waterfield Avenue in Fakenham, was a teenager at the time of the offenses and had demonstrated good character both before and after the incidents.

However, the judge, Katharine Moore, emphasized the gravity of the crimes, noting that they were committed against a “particularly vulnerable seven-year-old.” The court also ordered Howes to be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years and imposed a ban on him working with children in the future. The proceedings have taken a toll on Howes’s personal life, with reports indicating that he is a caring and supportive father who has experienced suicidal thoughts as a result of the case.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding children and the devastating impact that abuse can have, even many years after the offenses occur.