VINCENT HOWARD FROM MANNINGTREE JAILED FOR STRIP POOL INCIDENT AT CASTLE HEDINGHAM PUB

In a disturbing case that unfolded in March of the previous year, Vincent Howard, a 45-year-old man from Manningtree, was sentenced to prison following allegations of inappropriate conduct involving two young girls at a pub in Castle Hedingham. The incident, which took place at the Wheatsheaf pub, has drawn significant attention due to the serious nature of the accusations and the breach of trust involved.

According to court proceedings, Howard was responsible for serving alcohol to the two girls, aged 13 and 14 at the time, after they had arrived at the pub after closing hours. It was reported that Howard provided vodka to the minors, an act that raised immediate concerns about the safety and well-being of the young girls. The situation escalated when the girls engaged in a game of pool with Howard, during which he played a provocative version of the game called “strip pool,” where players remove clothing as forfeits. This game, which was sexually suggestive in nature, ultimately led to the girls and Howard going to bed together.

Howard, who resides at Gasfield, Manningtree, denied the charges of inciting or causing sexual activity with a child. Despite his denial, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him after an earlier trial. Judge Christopher Ball QC sentenced Howard to four months in prison, emphasizing the breach of trust and the inappropriate behavior displayed. The judge remarked, “I have not the least doubt they were flattered by the attention you gave them,” highlighting the manipulative nature of Howard’s actions.

The court also noted that the girls, who appeared impressionable, had arrived intoxicated and that Howard had continued to supply them with alcohol. The game of strip pool, which was sexually titillating, further contributed to the inappropriate environment that Howard created.

During the proceedings, Noel Casey, Howard’s legal representative, maintained that Howard continued to deny all allegations. The court was informed that Howard had a prior conviction from 1985, where he served two years for causing death by reckless driving, adding context to his criminal history.

Howard claimed that the girls had gone to play pool alone and that they had brought vodka with them, asserting that he had simply fallen asleep. However, the younger girl testified that Howard had given them vodka and suggested they play strip pool. She explained that initially they refused but, as they became more intoxicated, they lost control of the situation. The older girl later confided in a teacher, revealing that all three had woken up in bed together, with their clothes on the floor, indicating a disturbing sequence of events.

As a result of his actions, Howard, who is no longer employed at the Wheatsheaf pub, was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of seven years. The case has raised concerns about safeguarding minors and the responsibilities of adults in positions of trust, especially in social settings involving alcohol and vulnerable youth.