JOHN NOVAK FROM LISS SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL ABUSE IN WINCHESTER

A man identified as John Novak, originally from the village of Liss in East Hampshire, has been handed down a substantial prison sentence of eight years after being convicted of committing five separate counts of historic sexual abuse. The conviction was secured following a trial held at Winchester Crown Court, where Novak’s actions were thoroughly examined and judged to be profoundly damaging.

Novak, who previously resided on Chase Close in Liss, faced a sentencing hearing where the court heard a harrowing statement from his victim. The woman, who was approximately 13 years old when the abuse began, detailed the long-lasting psychological scars inflicted by Novak’s misconduct. She described her feelings of doubt, insecurity, and self-loathing that persisted long after the abuse. In her emotional statement, she expressed her desire for justice, saying, “I don’t believe I was John’s only victim – it’s important to me that he is held accountable. During the time of the abuse I struggled to understand my emotions. I drunk alcohol in school time to numb the feelings and self-harmed.”

The prosecution, led by Rose Burns, characterized Novak’s conduct as “sustained and repeated sexual abuse” that resulted in significant psychological harm to the victim. The offenses, which involved inappropriate touching initially and escalated over time, did not occur within the local area but were part of a broader pattern of abuse. Novak was found guilty of five counts of indecent assault during the trial.

On June 25, at Winchester Crown Court, Judge Recorder Gordon Bebb delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of Novak’s betrayal of trust. The judge pointed out that Novak exploited his position to subject the young girl to over six years of emotional and sexual abuse. He described Novak’s attitude as viewing the girl as a sexual object and noted that Novak exploited her innocence for his own gratification. The judge remarked, “You knew from the outset the distress you were causing her, and when it was made clear that your actions were wrong, you tried to normalise it.”

Judge Bebb also highlighted the lasting impact of Novak’s actions on his victim, stating that the abuse caused enduring damage. While the maximum sentence for such offenses can reach ten years, Novak’s sentence was reduced to eight years due to his previous good character and health issues. Supporters present in the courtroom applauded the victim’s bravery in giving her statement, recognizing her courage in speaking out.

During the sentencing, Novak’s lawyer, Tom Wright, cited his client’s deteriorating health and good character as mitigating factors. The judge concluded that Novak’s breach of trust was particularly egregious, especially considering the victim’s young age and her trust in him at the time. Novak’s sentence comprises eight years for the most serious charge, with additional sentences ranging from two to six years for the other charges, all to be served concurrently.