JASWANT PATTI OF SMETHWICK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF BOYS IN BIRMINGHAM AND WOLVERHAMPTON

In a case that has shocked the local community, Jaswant Patti, a man from Smethwick, was sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing two young boys over a period of several years. The offences took place between April 1989 and November 1991, and the case was heard at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

Judge Robert Orme delivered a stern verdict, acknowledging the complex character of Patti. While he noted that Patti had shown himself to be a generous, warm-hearted, and kind individual to those he befriended, the judge emphasized the darker side of his actions. "In many ways you have proved yourself to be a generous, warm-hearted, kind person to those you have befriended. But there is another side to that," Judge Orme stated.

He went on to explain that the crimes were committed over a relatively short period, but the impact on the victims was profound. The judge condemned Patti for abusing the trust and authority he held within his religious community, specifically as a member of the Jehovah’s Witness congregation. "These offences started about ten years ago and were committed over a short period of time. But at the end of the day I cannot avoid reaching the conclusion that you abused the position and authority you had in your church as a Jehovah’s Witness. You used your position to gain the trust and befriend a number of vulnerable young men," the judge declared.

Patti, aged 40 and employed as a Land Rover worker, resided on Montague Road in Smethwick. He faced multiple charges, including five counts of indecent assault and a serious sexual offence, following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court. He denied all allegations, which involved two boys aged nine and 14 at the time of the offences.

The prosecution argued that Patti exploited his role within the Birmingham Jehovah’s Witness congregation to establish close relationships with the boys. These relationships, the prosecution claimed, were driven by his sexual attraction and his ability to gain the trust of the boys’ families. The court heard that Patti’s actions were not innocent but calculated, aimed at grooming the boys for abuse.

During the trial, Patti’s defense attorney, Mr. Robert Hodgkinson, highlighted the personal consequences Patti faced as a result of the conviction. He stated, "Patti has lost his job and his reputation. His position within the religious sect will undoubtedly be affected. He is described as a respectable, generous, kind, helpful person. While he is in custody, he will be in solitary confinement."

Prosecutor Mr. John Attwood emphasized the predatory nature of Patti’s conduct, asserting that his motives were far from innocent. He pointed out that Patti made inappropriate sexual advances towards both boys, further underscoring the severity of his actions.

Following the conclusion of the trial, the impact on one of the victims was evident. The now 19-year-old former nine-year-old boy revealed the emotional toll the abuse had taken on him. "I tried to commit suicide. I felt used and dirty, and everything got too much for me," he shared, illustrating the lasting scars left by Patti’s misconduct.

Police officials described Patti as a predatory paedophile who exploited his position within the church to groom and abuse vulnerable young boys. A detective involved in the case stated, "He was using his shield in the church and is a danger to young boys," highlighting the ongoing concern about his potential threat to other children in the community.