JOHN COATES FROM CAMBRIDGE AND WHEATHAMPSTEAD JAILED FOR HISTORIC SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING YOUNG GIRLS

In a case that has spanned several decades, John Coates, an 84-year-old man originally from Gustard Wood, has been sentenced to prison for a series of historic sexual offences involving three young girls. The crimes, which took place over a period of more than twenty years, only came to light recently when the victims, now adults, felt sufficiently courageous to come forward and report their experiences.

Coates’s offending began in the late 1960s, during a time when societal awareness and protections for children were less developed. His criminal activities continued into the 1980s while he was residing in Gustard Wood, a village near Wheathampstead. It was only in the past two years that the victims, who had kept silent for many years, decided to break their silence and seek justice.

Earlier this year, a jury found Coates guilty of three counts of indecent assault and three counts of indecency with a child. The verdict was delivered after a detailed trial that examined the disturbing details of his actions and the impact on the victims. Coates, who has since moved to Cambridge, appeared at St Albans Crown Court on Thursday, the 17th of November, to face sentencing.

During the proceedings, trial judge Stephen Warner delivered a stern message to Coates, stating, “You treated them as objects for your own gratification.” The judge also referenced reports compiled after the trial, which revealed that Coates remained in denial about his actions and showed no remorse for the harm caused to his victims. These reports painted a picture of a man who had not taken responsibility for his past behavior.

In light of the evidence and the severity of the offences, Judge Warner sentenced Coates to five years and nine months in prison. Additionally, he was informed that his name would be entered onto the sex offenders register, a measure intended to monitor and restrict his activities following his release. The case underscores the importance of victims coming forward, even after many years, to ensure justice is served and to protect others from potential harm.