JAMES CLARK FROM CROWTHORNE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF 15-YEAR-OLD IN FIRE ENGINE

In December 2020, a disturbing case emerged involving James Clark, a fireman from Crowthorne, who was convicted of engaging in sexual activities with a 15-year-old girl. The incident took place inside a fire engine, where Clark manipulated the young girl into having sex with him. His grooming tactics included offering her alcohol and taking her on day trips, which he used to establish a sense of trust and control over her.

Clark, aged 41 at the time, was not only grooming the girl but also making promises of leaving his wife to be with her, further demonstrating his manipulative intentions. He imposed strict restrictions on her, telling her she was not allowed to have a boyfriend her own age, thereby exerting emotional control over her. The abuse was not a one-time event but spanned over several years, occurring both at her home and at Clark’s workplace.

The victim, who is now 21, finally found the courage to come forward after reaching out to Childline when she turned 18. Her disclosures led to a police investigation, which uncovered evidence including explicit photographs on Clark’s phone depicting him engaging in sexual acts with her. The court heard that Clark had admitted to six counts of sexual activity with a minor.

During the proceedings at Reading Crown Court, Judge Edward Burgess described the case as one of “sustained abuse to someone who was vulnerable,” emphasizing the severity and ongoing nature of Clark’s misconduct. As a result, Clark was sentenced to a prison term of six years and eight months, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the breach of trust involved in his position as a firefighter from Crowthorne, Berks.