BRISTOL PAEDOPHILE MICHAEL JENKINS FROM KNOWLE JAILED FOR 17 YEARS FOR DECADES OF ABUSE

In a significant case that highlights the ongoing fight against child abuse, Michael Jenkins, a 38-year-old man from Dunster Road in the Knowle area of Bristol, has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes committed over more than a decade. Jenkins was convicted of multiple serious offences, including one count of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault, following a trial held at Bristol Crown Court.

Prior to the trial, Jenkins had admitted to three sexual assaults, two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, twelve counts of creating or taking indecent photographs of a child, possessing an extreme pornographic image, and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. These admissions, combined with the evidence presented during the trial, painted a disturbing picture of a man who repeatedly preyed on vulnerable young girls.

According to the investigation led by Detective Sergeant Emma George of the Bristol-based Operation Bluestone team, Jenkins's abuse began as early as 2003. Over the years, he exploited two young girls, whose ages ranged from just eight to fourteen at the time of the abuse. The severity and duration of Jenkins's offending prompted a thorough investigation, which ultimately led to his conviction.

DS Emma George expressed her hope that the lengthy sentence would serve as a deterrent to others who might consider similar criminal behaviour. She emphasized the importance of supporting victims and ensuring offenders are held accountable. She stated, “Michael Jenkins is a serial offender who put himself in situations where he could have easy access to young victims.”

One of the victims demonstrated remarkable bravery by coming forward in February 2013 to report the abuse she endured as a child. Shortly thereafter, a second victim also disclosed her experiences. The investigation revealed that Jenkins had used the internet as a tool to further his criminal interests. Notably, he attempted to contact an 11-year-old girl from Sheffield via Skype, with the apparent intention of persuading her to visit him in Bristol for sexual purposes.

DS George praised the victims for their courage in speaking out, acknowledging how difficult it can be to confront such traumatic memories. She reaffirmed the importance of believing, supporting, and protecting victims, and emphasized that justice must be served to prevent further offences. “I hope the lengthy sentence given in this case acts as a deterrent to others,” she added, underscoring the broader implications of this conviction for community safety and child protection.