ALBERT WHINNETT JAILED FOR SEX ABUSE IN DUNSTABLE AND LUTON

In January 2002, a significant case involving a former local government figure from Bedfordshire drew widespread attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and subsequent conviction. Albert Whinnett, aged 73, who previously served as the chairman of South Bedfordshire District Council in 1984 and was a prominent Conservative councillor, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for multiple counts of indecent assault against two young girls.

Whinnett, a resident of Englands Lane in Dunstable, was found guilty of 19 charges of indecent assault that spanned from 1991 to 1997. The charges involved two girls, one now 19 years old and the other 17, who testified that Whinnett had indecently assaulted them during that period. The court heard that the former councillor had visited a 'den' created by the girls, where they kept pornographic magazines. It was reported that Whinnett had detailed knowledge of the content of these magazines, which he explained to the girls during his visits.

The trial took place at Luton Crown Court, where the jury was presented with evidence of the assaults. Despite denying all charges, Whinnett was convicted in November 2001. During the proceedings, the court was informed of the disturbing nature of the offences and the impact they would have on the victims' lives.

Judge Ronald Moss delivered the sentence, expressing profound sadness over the case. He remarked that if Whinnett had been younger and in better health, the sentence might have been four or five years. The judge also mandated that Whinnett register as a sex offender for a period of ten years. In his sentencing remarks, Judge Moss conveyed his feelings, stating, “This case has given me an overwhelming feeling of sadness. Sadness for the victims, who will be affected forever, and also sadness for you, an elderly man of exemplary character, but that does not count for a great deal when dealing with sexual offences of this kind.”

Following his arrest in April, Whinnett maintained his innocence, telling police, “I have not interfered with them.” His legal representative, Lewis Power, emphasized that his client was still adamant about his innocence and expressed concern over his health, suggesting that a lengthy prison sentence would be akin to a life sentence for him. The case has left a lasting impact on the community in Dunstable and the surrounding areas, highlighting the importance of vigilance and justice in cases of sexual abuse.