MAN JAILED FOR 12 AND A HALF YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES
A man who committed sexual assaults and rape of two children over a period of three years has received a sentence of 12 and a half years in prison.Francis Willers, 58, from Northumberland Street in Norwich, appeared before Norwich Crown Court today (Friday, June 6, 2025) where he admitted to four counts of sexual activity with a child under 13 and two counts of raping a child under 13.
The offenses took place in Norwich between 2021 and 2024 and came to light after the children reported the abuse to their teachers in December 2024.
Willers was subsequently arrested and charged.
At the court hearing, Willers was sentenced to 12.5 years behind bars, with an extra two and a half years on license.
He will also be on the Sex Offenders Register for life and is subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Personal statements presented during the hearing conveyed the enduring emotional and psychological impact of the abuse on the victims, illustrating the ongoing consequences of Willers' actions.
The court was told how one girl "used to be very cuddly - but isn't as affectionate since this came out and now spends a lot of time on her own or in her room.
It is noticeable how much she has distanced herself from everyone since this has happened".
The other victim was described as "filled with anger" and often "shuts herself down".
