VERNON FOALE FROM KINGWOOD JAILED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD ABUSE IN SURREY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Vernon Foale, a 71-year-old baker from Kingswood, Surrey, has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison for the heinous sexual abuse of a young girl over a period spanning from 1989 to 1995. The abuse began when the victim was just two years old and continued until she was around eight, marking a prolonged period of suffering that has left lasting scars.

Foale’s crimes came to light after the victim, now an adult, bravely came forward to Surrey Police to recount the traumatic experiences she endured at the hands of the man she once trusted. The allegations detailed a series of disturbing incidents where Foale molested her on multiple occasions during her childhood. The court heard that the abuse took place within the familiar surroundings of Kingswood, a neighborhood known for its friendly atmosphere, where children often played freely and families interacted closely.

According to court records, Foale’s misconduct involved four separate incidents of indecent assault. The first incident reportedly occurred when the young girl was sitting on Foale’s lap. During this encounter, he allegedly placed a pillow across her legs and touched her inappropriately, leaving her with a “very wet and cold” sensation between her legs. The court was told that during a subsequent incident, Foale was singing nursery rhymes to the girl, a tactic he used to lull her into a false sense of security before committing the assault by placing his hand inside her underwear.

Further assaults were also detailed, with the victim recounting that Foale again touched her private areas during these episodes. The victim’s statement, read out in court, revealed her feelings of confusion and innocence at the time, noting that she did not perceive the acts as frightening then, but now recognizes their wrongfulness. She described how Foale told her to keep the abuse a secret, saying, “It was our secret. And he told me not to tell anyone,” which added to her sense of betrayal and fear.

Foale’s defense argued that any physical contact was innocent and accidental, claiming that he did not intend harm. When questioned by police in August 2015, he maintained that his actions were not malicious. However, the jury at the Old Bailey found him guilty of four counts of indecent assault on September 28, 2016. The sentencing hearing was scheduled for October 26 at the same court, where the judge would determine the appropriate punishment for his crimes.

Foale’s conviction marks a significant moment in the ongoing effort to bring justice to victims of childhood abuse, especially those who have suffered in silence for years. The case underscores the importance of vigilance within communities and the need for victims to come forward, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. The court’s decision serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact such crimes have on innocent lives and the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable.