WILLIAM KOENEKE JAILED FOR ABUSE IN EASTBOURNE AND PADDINGTON

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Eastbourne community and beyond, William Koeneke, an 86-year-old former deacon, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for a series of indecent assaults committed over two decades ago. The conviction was handed down at Isleworth Crown Court on March 12, following a detailed investigation into allegations that spanned from the mid-1980s to the late 1980s.

Koeneke, who resided on Pevensey Road in Eastbourne at the time of his arrest, was found guilty of four counts of indecent assault involving young boys under the age of 16. The crimes took place during his tenure at the Worldwide Church of God (WCG), where he held the position of deacon. His role within the church often involved delivering sermons and engaging with congregants, which he exploited to gain the trust of his young victims.

The assaults reportedly occurred at an address in Paddington, where Koeneke befriended and preyed upon the boys between 1985 and 1989. The victims, now in their 30s, came forward with allegations that led to a police investigation. Their testimonies revealed a pattern of grooming and abuse that had remained hidden for decades.

Following his arrest in December 2011, authorities uncovered evidence linking Koeneke to the crimes. The court heard that he had used his position within the church to manipulate and exploit vulnerable young boys. As part of his sentence, Koeneke was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which aims to restrict his activities and prevent further offenses.

His conviction marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to bring justice to victims of sexual abuse, especially those who suffered in silence for many years. The case underscores the importance of vigilance within religious communities and the need for robust mechanisms to protect children from abuse, regardless of the offender’s age or status.