ALAN STARLING SENTENCED FOR MULTIPLE SEX OFFENCES IN COULSDON

In March 2019, a man from Coulsdon, Surrey, was handed a significant prison sentence after admitting to a series of serious sexual offences involving a minor. Alan Starling, aged 47 and residing on Chaldon Way in Coulsdon, appeared before Croydon Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to a total of 12 counts related to child abuse. His charges included three counts of sexual activity with a child, three counts of causing or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual acts, two counts of causing or inciting a child to participate in sexual activities, and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a minor. Additionally, he was convicted of two counts of penetrative sexual activity with a child.

As part of his sentencing, Starling was ordered to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, a measure that underscores the severity of his crimes. The court proceedings revealed that Starling had established a relationship with the victim’s family many years prior, during which he gained their trust. Over an extended period, he groomed their son, manipulating him into a situation where sexual abuse could occur.

The abuse was uncovered when the young victim, who was 13 years old at the time, disclosed the abuse to authorities. The incident came to light on Saturday, 27 July 2018, when police were alerted after discovering text messages on a spare family phone used by the boy. These messages indicated that inappropriate and sexual conduct had taken place.

During police interviews, the victim confirmed that Starling had sexually abused him and that he had been instructed by Starling not to tell anyone about the abuse. Following the investigation, Starling was arrested on the same day, 27 July 2018. He initially responded to the allegations with a no comment interview but later provided a written statement denying the accusations. Despite his denial, the evidence and victim testimony led to his conviction and subsequent sentencing, marking a significant case in the fight against child sexual abuse in the Coulsdon area.