MICHAEL WALKERDINE FROM HATFIELD ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT IN WARE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Michael Walkerdine, a 57-year-old man residing on Thieves Lane in Hatfield, was convicted of sexually assaulting a young boy in Ware but was ultimately spared immediate imprisonment. The incident, which took place on January 13 of this year, involved Walkerdine touching the naked genitalia of a boy who was intoxicated at the time.

During the hearing at St Albans Crown Court on April 19, Walkerdine appeared in the dock, visibly emotional, with a hearing device in place. As the court proceedings unfolded, it was revealed that he had committed a serious sexual offence that has had profound effects on the victim. The court heard the victim’s impact statement, read aloud by prosecutor Chris Hewerston, which detailed the emotional and psychological toll the incident has taken.

The young victim expressed that the assault has significantly disrupted his life. He stated, “This incident has affected me in many ways. My grades have suffered. Ever since the incident I struggle to sleep all night, sometimes waking up at 2am or 3am and staying up all night. I now sleep with a torch beside me and I don’t go out a lot.” The statement underscored the lasting trauma inflicted by the assault, highlighting the victim’s ongoing struggles with sleep and social activities.

In the courtroom, a friend of the victim, who was present in the public gallery, offered support and indicated her willingness to help Walkerdine by providing accommodation at her house. She expressed her intention to assist him as he navigates his future relationship with his wife, suggesting a community effort to support him despite the gravity of his actions.

Judge Recorder Justin Rouse QC addressed the court, acknowledging the severity of the offence. He stated, “The offence clearly crosses the custodial threshold,” emphasizing that the crime was serious enough to warrant a custodial sentence. However, after considering all factors, the judge decided that a custodial sentence was not necessary at this stage. Instead, Walkerdine was sentenced to a ten-month prison term, suspended for two years. This means that if he commits any further offences within this period, he is likely to serve time in prison.

Additionally, the court ordered Walkerdine to complete 60 hours of rehabilitation programs and perform 180 hours of unpaid community service. The judge also commented on the impact of the offence on Walkerdine’s family, stating that he had “shamed his family,” a remark that underscored the social and personal repercussions of his actions. Walkerdine nodded in acknowledgment as the sentence was handed down, reflecting a somber acceptance of the court’s decision.

This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding sexual offences and the importance of justice for victims, while also illustrating the complex considerations courts must balance when sentencing offenders. The community in Hatfield and Ware will undoubtedly continue to follow this case as it develops, with many reflecting on the profound effects such crimes have on victims and their families.