JOHN WEST FROM WORTHING JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN WATERLOOVILLE

In a case that has spanned over a decade and a half, John West, a resident of Worthing, has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison for a serious sexual offence committed in Waterlooville. The 42-year-old man, whose address is listed as Shetland Court in Worthing, was convicted at Portsmouth Crown Court of engaging in unlawful sexual activities with a minor.

According to court records and police reports, West’s victim, who was only 13 years old at the time of the assault, came forward in 2019 to report the abuse. The incident itself allegedly took place in 2005, when the girl was just beginning her teenage years. Despite initially reporting the assault in 2005, she later withdrew her statement out of fear of the potential court proceedings and the emotional toll they might entail.

It was only after her re-emergence in 2019 that authorities reopened the investigation. Law enforcement officials conducted interviews with West, leading to his arrest and subsequent charging with two counts: one of sexual activity with a child and another of inciting or causing a child to engage in sexual acts. West maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges.

However, after a trial that concluded in August of this year, a jury found him guilty of both offences. During the sentencing hearing, Judge Shepherd highlighted West’s lack of remorse, noting that he had failed to offer any apology or show regret for his actions. The court’s decision reflects the serious nature of the offences and the importance of protecting minors from such predatory behaviour.