GLYNN CHESWORTH FROM FENTON JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In a case that has spanned over three decades, Glynn Chesworth, a 57-year-old man from Fenton, has been sentenced to four years in prison for sexually abusing a young girl during the early 1980s. The disturbing events came to light only recently, when the victim, now in her 40s, finally found the courage to report the abuse to the authorities, leading to Chesworth's conviction.

Chesworth, who was in his twenties at the time of the offenses, carried out the abuse over a period of three years. The details of the case emerged during a court hearing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where it was revealed that Chesworth took advantage of moments when he and the young girl were alone together to commit his crimes. Prosecutor Peter McCartney described the nature of the abuse, stating, “He would put his hand under her clothes and touch her inappropriately.”

The final incident, according to court records, was particularly significant. The victim, who was a child at the time, told Chesworth that what he was doing was wrong and warned him that if he repeated the act, she would tell her mother. Despite his laughter, the abuse ceased after that, and she recalled not seeing him again afterward. The victim’s statement, read aloud in court, detailed the profound and lasting impact the abuse had on her life. She explained that she did not understand what was happening at the time, believing she was being made to feel special and being asked to keep secrets, which she thought was part of a game. As she grew older, feelings of disgust and shame overwhelmed her, and she described the persistent torment of her thoughts, which have shaped her personality and life choices.

Glynn Chesworth, of Stanier Street, Fenton, pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent assault and one count of indecency with a child. Notably, he had no previous criminal convictions. His defense lawyer, Adam Watkins, emphasized that the offenses occurred more than 35 years ago and that Chesworth has shown no signs of misconduct since then. Watkins highlighted Chesworth’s efforts to turn his life around, mentioning his long-term partner of eight years, for whom he acts as a carer, and his part-time employment.

Despite these mitigating factors, the court recognized the severity of the abuse. Judge Paul Glenn sentenced Chesworth to four years in prison, acknowledging the significant and lasting damage caused to the victim. The judge stated, “Your actions have had a significant impact on that lady’s life. Your past has finally caught up with you – I have to impose a custodial sentence.” The case underscores the importance of justice and the courage of victims who come forward after many years to seek accountability for their suffering.