ROGER LIGHTFOOT SENTENCED IN CHILWORTH FOR DECADES-OLD SEX OFFENSES AGAINST GIRL GUIDES

A 63-year-old man from Chilworth, Roger Lightfoot, has been handed a six-year prison sentence after being found guilty of indecently assaulting a girl guide during the early 1980s. The conviction follows a lengthy investigation into allegations that date back several decades, highlighting the enduring impact of such crimes and the importance of justice.

Lightfoot, who was a scout leader at the time, admitted to multiple charges of indecent assault involving the young girl. The offenses reportedly took place between 1979 and 1992, spanning over a decade of alleged misconduct. The victim, whose identity remains protected, only came forward to report the abuse in 2012, nearly 20 years after the last known incident.

In addition to the prison sentence, Lightfoot was ordered to be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities following his release. The court's decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are treated, especially when committed by individuals in positions of trust and authority within youth organizations.

The case has drawn attention to the long-lasting effects of childhood abuse and the importance of encouraging victims to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed. Authorities continue to emphasize the need for vigilance and support for survivors of such crimes, as well as the importance of holding offenders accountable, no matter how many years have elapsed since the offenses occurred.