FREDERICK JEFFERIES FROM LAMBURNN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES AT READING CROWN COURT

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Lambourn, Frederick Jefferies, a 67-year-old former firefighter and resident of St Agnes Terrace, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 15 years at Reading Crown Court for a series of heinous child sex offences committed over a span of more than three decades.

Jefferies, who was convicted in January of multiple charges including engaging in sexual acts with children as young as eight and attempting to rape a minor, appeared in court for sentencing on a recent Friday. Despite his conviction, Jefferies maintained his innocence, choosing to deny all allegations. His refusal to admit guilt compelled some of his victims to relive their traumatic experiences during the court proceedings, with several victims expressing feelings of blame and shame, having internalized the abuse as children.

During the sentencing hearing, some of the victims described the profound and lasting damage inflicted upon their lives by Jefferies’ actions. They spoke of the devastating emotional and psychological toll that the abuse had taken, emphasizing the enormous trauma they continue to endure. The court was also informed that Jefferies’ wife stood by his side throughout the proceedings, and character references painted a picture of a man who was kind to his neighbors and respected in his community.

His defense lawyer, John Lyons, argued that there was no indication Jefferies sought out opportunities to abuse children or engaged in online activities related to child exploitation. He urged the judge to show mercy, highlighting Jefferies’ advanced age and the damage to his reputation. Lyons described Jefferies as “a brave man; a religious man,” and emphasized his service as a retained firefighter, portraying him as a loyal and community-minded individual.

Lyons also pointed out that Jefferies had a supportive wife and requested that the court consider the impact of imprisonment on an elderly man who might become increasingly isolated. He appealed for a sentence that would allow Jefferies some hope for life after prison, rather than a purely punitive approach that would leave him institutionalized and socially isolated.

However, Judge Heather Norton was unpersuaded by the defense’s arguments. She noted that Jefferies had shown no remorse for his actions and that the lengthy period over which the offences occurred indicated a persistent and unaltered deviant sexual drive. The judge sentenced Jefferies to 15 years in prison, with an additional two-year extended license period. She clarified that Jefferies would serve at least half of his sentence before being eligible for parole consideration, with the possibility of serving the remainder of his term on license after release. The court’s decision underscores the severity of the crimes committed and the lasting impact on the victims, as well as the community’s demand for justice.