MICHAEL FENSOM FROM CRANFIELD SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN HISTORIC CASE

In a case that has left a lasting impact on the community of Cranfield, Michael Fensom, a 78-year-old resident of Coronation Road, was sentenced to a significant prison term after admitting to serious sexual offenses committed against a young boy. The case, which dates back to the early 2000s, finally saw justice served after years of silence and suffering.

The victim, now in his 30s, bravely came forward to police in 2018, revealing the traumatic details of the abuse he endured as a child. He recounted that the abuse began when he was approximately 10 years old in the year 2000 and persisted for nearly five years. The assaults continued until he reached his mid-teens, during his time at middle school, leaving him haunted by memories that have profoundly affected his life.

Expressing a sense of relief, the victim shared his feelings about finally speaking out. He told authorities that the burden of secrecy had weighed heavily on him for years. “I’ve had to live for years knowing about it, keeping it a secret, writing off my life,” he said. “Since the start of this whole thing with the police, it’s got easier to live with, but it feels like there’s more support there than you could ever imagine.”

Fensom’s arrest came in February 2018, following the police investigation into the allegations. Initially, he denied any wrongdoing, but in September 2020, he pleaded guilty to nine counts of indecent assault on a male and four counts of sexual activity with a child. The court proceedings revealed the gravity of his actions and the long-standing impact on his victim.

At Luton Crown Court on Tuesday, Fensom was sentenced to nine years and six months in prison. Additionally, he was given an extended 12-month license period, during which he will be monitored closely. As part of his sentence, Fensom was also ordered to be placed on the sex offenders register for life, ensuring ongoing supervision and restrictions.

Fensom maintained his innocence regarding three additional charges of indecent assault on a male and two counts of sexual activity with a child. These charges, however, will be laid on file and will not proceed to trial. The case underscores the importance of speaking out against abuse and the justice system’s role in holding offenders accountable, even years after the crimes occurred.