IAN WARD FROM CRAWLEY SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR INDECENT ASSAULT AND ATTEMPTED RAPE OF YOUNG GIRL

In a case that has shocked the Crawley community, Ian Alan Ward, aged 49, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of nine years after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The crimes spanned over a three-year period, during which Ward repeatedly assaulted and attempted to rape the girl, who was between the ages of 12 and 15 at the time of the abuse.

The sentencing followed a comprehensive three-week trial held at Croydon Crown Court, where the jury heard detailed evidence of nine separate indecent assaults committed by Ward. The offenses took place within the Crawley area, specifically between 1998 and 2002, highlighting a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior over several years.

Ward, who resides on Tangmere Road in Crawley, will face lifelong registration as a sex offender upon his release from prison, a measure designed to monitor his activities and protect the community from potential future harm. The court's decision underscores the severity of his crimes and the lasting impact on the victim.

During the sentencing, Her Honour Judge Downing praised the victim for her remarkable bravery in coming forward to report the abuse. Her composure and courage in giving evidence during the trial were acknowledged as instrumental in securing justice.

Detective Constable Lindsay Russell, involved in the investigation, expressed her support for the victim, stating, “She bravely gave evidence at court and we were glad to be able to help her see justice done. This case illustrates the way in which we will always take such reports seriously, working with victims to help ensure they receive appropriate support and that cases are brought to trial where the evidence justifies it and in the public interest.”