DAVID DUNHAM FROM STRATFORD ESCAPES JAIL AFTER MOLESTATION CASE REVEALED AFTER 27 YEARS

On November 2, 1992, a case that had remained hidden for over a quarter of a century finally came to light, bringing a Stratford man named David Dunham to justice for crimes committed in the past. Dunham, aged 55 at the time, had been living a quiet life on Holland Road, Stratford, until the long-standing allegations surfaced, revealing a disturbing history of abuse involving two young boys.

In a court session held at the Old Bailey, Dunham was found guilty earlier in the month of indecently assaulting two boys, aged seven and ten, in the year 1965. Despite the gravity of the accusations, Dunham maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, denying any wrongdoing. The court had initially adjourned sentencing to await reports that could shed more light on his health and character.

The reports presented to the court disclosed that Dunham was suffering from a heart condition, which played a significant role in the judge’s decision. The victims, now men who have grown into adulthood, described Dunham as 'backward,' a term indicating developmental or mental challenges. The judge, Nina Lowry, took these factors into account when passing her sentence.

In her sentencing remarks, Judge Lowry sentenced Dunham to nine months in jail, suspended for two years. She emphasized the lasting impact of child abuse, stating, “The effects of this case remind everyone of the dreadful misery that a child who is abused by adults can suffer, and how these effects can endure for many years.” She highlighted that neither victim forgot the traumatic events, which had been compounded by their histories of violence and cruelty inflicted by their own father, who was also a victim of abuse and had been sexually abusing his children for many years.

The judge noted that one of the victims had confided in his wife, who worked for social services, leading to the police being informed and the eventual prosecution of Dunham. She expressed sympathy for the victims, acknowledging the profound suffering they endured, and pointed out that Dunham’s offenses, while serious, were overshadowed by the abuse inflicted by the victims’ father, who is now deceased.

Furthermore, Dunham was acquitted of a more serious charge of attempting an unnatural act, specifically buggery. The court’s decision reflected a combination of factors, including Dunham’s failing health, his otherwise good character, and the significant passage of time since the offenses occurred. This case serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting scars of childhood abuse and the importance of justice, even after many years have passed.