ROSS THOMAS AND LEONARD BENNETT FROM GOSPORT AND SLOUGH AVOID JAIL DESPITE CHILD ABUSE CASE

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Gosport and Slough, two elderly men, both aged 76, have narrowly avoided immediate imprisonment after being convicted of serious child abuse offenses committed over a quarter of a century ago. The court proceedings, held at Portsmouth Crown Court, revealed disturbing details about the abuse inflicted upon a young boy, who was between 11 and 12 years old at the time.

Ross Thomas, a resident of Slough and a former steward at Windsor Castle, pleaded guilty to charges of gross indecency with a child and indecent assault. His involvement in the case was particularly notable given his role as a castle steward, a position that typically involves close contact with children and the public. The court was informed that Thomas, who had been a regular visitor to Windsor Castle after his retirement in 1997, was invited to take up the steward position due to his frequent visits. However, due to the nature of his convictions, he will now be required to relinquish this role, as it involves contact with children.

Leonard Bennett, a resident of Gosport, also admitted to the same offenses, which included indecent assault on the same victim, along with a third charge of indecency. The court heard that the abuse took place over an 18-month period leading up to May 1986, after the boy joined a gun club in Gosport. The abuse was carried out in various locations, including public toilets and the foreshore of a local park, highlighting the disturbing nature of the offenses.

Prosecutor Kerry Maylin described the profound impact the abuse had on the victim. She explained that the victim’s behavior at school was affected, as well as his perception of himself. The victim reportedly developed coping mechanisms that led to trouble at school and caused him ongoing difficulties for a significant period. The court was told that the abuse was systematic and exploited the victim’s vulnerability over several months.

Judge Ian Pearson, presiding over the case, described the two men as “Portsmouth’s oldest paedophiles,” emphasizing the seriousness of their actions. Despite the gravity of the offenses, the judge sentenced both men to 12 months in prison for each charge, with the sentences to run concurrently. However, recognizing their advanced age and the potential threat they posed to children, the judge suspended the sentences for two years. This decision was based on the belief that the men no longer represented a danger to children due to their age.

The court also ordered both men to sign the sex offenders register for a period of 10 years and disqualified them from working with children for life. Additionally, they were mandated to pay a total of £1,000 in compensation to their victim, acknowledging the lasting harm caused by their actions.