ALAN CONNOLLY FROM HEMEL HEMPSTEAD SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING CHILDREN IN LUTON

In December 2016, a man from Hemel Hempstead named Alan Connolly was sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences involving two children, including a boy under the age of 13.

Connolly, aged 33 at the time, pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault against the young boy. In addition, he admitted to taking indecent photographs of a child and creating several indecent images of children, totaling three counts.

The case was heard at Luton Crown Court, where it was revealed that Connolly was initially arrested in September for downloading indecent images. Following his arrest, he voluntarily underwent a polygraph test, commonly known as a lie detector, which led to him admitting to further offences. This polygraph examination played a crucial role in uncovering additional details about his criminal activities, although it is important to note that polygraph results are not considered admissible as direct evidence in court.

As part of his sentencing, Connolly has been ordered to register as a sex offender and is subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). Authorities have classified him as a dangerous individual and a significant risk to children, emphasizing the profound impact his predatory behaviour has had on his victims.

This case highlights the importance of tools like polygraph testing in criminal investigations, especially in cases involving vulnerable victims. While not legally binding as evidence, such tests can be instrumental in encouraging suspects to disclose additional information and in assessing the level of risk they pose to society, particularly to children who are most at risk from predators like Connolly.