MICHAEL LAWRENCE FROM CRAVEN ARMS SENTENCED TO 16 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN GUILDFORD

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Craven Arms, Michael Lawrence, a 57-year-old man, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence of 16 years after being found guilty of multiple heinous crimes involving child abuse and cruelty. The conviction was secured at Guildford Crown Court, where the court heard detailed evidence of Lawrence's disturbing actions.

Lawrence's crimes came to light following a thorough investigation that was initiated in 2016. The first victim, who came forward during this period, disclosed that they had endured physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the hands of Lawrence over a span of three years, from 2012 to 2015. As the inquiry progressed, authorities identified a second victim, further substantiating the allegations against him.

Following the revelations, Lawrence was arrested in October 2016. He faced a total of 21 charges related to his abusive conduct. After a rigorous two-week trial, the jury found him guilty on multiple counts, including two charges of cruelty to a person under 16, five counts of causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, and three counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration.

In addition to his prison sentence, Lawrence was subjected to a lifetime restraining order and a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO). These legal measures are designed to prevent him from ever contacting his victims again and to prohibit any contact with other children, aiming to protect the community from further harm.

The case has garnered significant attention in Craven and surrounding areas, highlighting the importance of vigilance and the need for robust protective measures for vulnerable children. The court's decision underscores the severity of Lawrence's crimes and the justice served for his victims.