JUSTIN WARD FROM KNUTSFORD SENTENCED OVER 11 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE AND DISTRIBUTION OF INDECENT IMAGES IN CHESTER

In August 2014, a notorious paedophile from Knutsford, Justin Ward, was handed a substantial prison sentence exceeding 11 years for his involvement in the sexual abuse of young boys and the distribution of indecent images. Ward, aged 48 and residing on Northwich Road, appeared before Chester Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to his heinous crimes.

The investigation into Ward’s activities was initiated in 2011 after a young boy from Knutsford courageously disclosed that he had been subjected to sexual abuse by Ward. This brave revelation prompted police to act swiftly, leading to Ward’s arrest and the seizure of his computers. A thorough forensic examination of his devices uncovered a disturbing collection of indecent images of children, which Ward was actively distributing. Additionally, investigators found chat logs that detailed Ward’s online grooming of children, revealing a pattern of predatory behavior.

Further evidence was uncovered through a disc containing photographs of Ward abusing boys during his time working in Germany in the 1990s. These findings led to charges related to the abuse of two boys in Germany, to which Ward pleaded guilty. By July 2013, Ward faced a total of 29 criminal charges, including indecent assault on a child, possession and distribution of indecent images, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and other related offences. He admitted guilt to 24 of these charges, with the remaining five being allowed to lie on file.

Detective Constable Richard Deakin commented on the case, stating, “Justin Ward is a paedophile who for years has been grooming young boys and sexually abusing them. This investigation was started when one of those boys had the courage to tell somebody about the abuse and support was given to him to help him through the process. I would like to thank them for helping bring this man to justice. We would encourage young victims of sexual abuse to tell somebody they can trust, such as their parents, teachers, or the police, so we can stop it happening to them and other young people.”

Ward’s sentencing marks a significant victory for law enforcement and victim support advocates, highlighting the importance of speaking out against abuse and the relentless pursuit of justice for victims of such heinous crimes.