JOSEPH SHEPHERD FROM WESHAM SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN PRESTON

In August 2011, a man from Wesham, Joseph Shepherd, was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of serious sexual offences involving a young boy. The case was heard at Preston Crown Court, where the jury convicted Shepherd of three separate charges related to his inappropriate conduct with the minor. Despite the verdict, Shepherd maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, asserting that he was not guilty of the allegations brought against him.

Joseph Shepherd, aged 57 and residing on Weeton Road in Wesham, faced charges that included two instances of kissing the young boy and a third charge involving touching the child. The court was informed that these acts constituted sexual activity with a minor, and the evidence presented by the prosecution painted a disturbing picture of Shepherd’s conduct. The court heard detailed accounts of the offences, which involved grooming behaviors and attempts at seduction, highlighting the manipulative nature of Shepherd’s actions.

During the trial, Julie Taylor, Shepherd’s defense attorney, emphasized her client’s continued denial of the charges. She pointed out that Shepherd, who was employed at a local biscuit factory, maintained his innocence despite the conviction. The court also learned that Shepherd had a prior conviction from approximately 30 years ago for offences against a different child, indicating a troubling pattern of behavior.

It was noted that Shepherd’s partner stood by him during the proceedings, offering support amid the controversy. However, the court also heard that Shepherd’s reputation in the community had suffered significantly; he had been barred from a local pub after his criminal convictions became publicly known.

Judge Graham Knowles QC addressed Shepherd directly, expressing his view that the young boy had been deeply hurt and damaged by Shepherd’s actions. The judge described Shepherd’s conduct as entirely self-centered and morally wrong, emphasizing that such behavior deserved appropriate punishment. He further explained that the offences involved grooming and an attempt to seduce the child, which are serious criminal acts.

Judge Knowles also commented on Shepherd’s attempt to portray himself as naive and simple-minded, asserting instead that he was a shrewd and calculating individual. The judge referenced a report from a probation officer, which characterized Shepherd as a predatory and manipulative person who failed to acknowledge the harm caused by his actions or the stress inflicted on his victims.

Ultimately, Shepherd was sentenced to nine months in prison for his crimes. The court’s decision underscored the severity of his offences and the need to protect the community from individuals who pose such risks to children.