ALLAN BENNETT'S 11-YEAR JAIL SENTENCE FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN BARNSEY, GAWBER, AND MONK BRETTON REDUCED TO EIGHT YEARS

In a significant development in a long-standing case of child sexual abuse, Allan Bennett, a 66-year-old man from Sheridan Court, Monk Bretton, has seen his prison sentence shortened after an appeal. Bennett was originally sentenced to 11 years in December 2003 at Sheffield Crown Court, following his conviction on charges of two serious sexual assaults and eight indecent assaults committed against young boys under his care during the 1970s and 1980s.

These heinous acts took place while Bennett was employed by Barnsley Borough Council, working at two different facilities: the Needlewood Assessment Centre located in Barnsley and Wellfield House in Gawber. The crimes only came to light years later, with the first victim, who was assaulted at Needlewood House, coming forward in 2002. The revelation of these abuses prompted further testimonies from other victims, revealing a disturbing pattern of violence and exploitation.

During the appeal hearing held at London's Appeal Court, Lord Justice Clarke, sitting alongside Mr. Justice Poole and Mr. Justice Elias, determined that the original 11-year sentence was excessive given the circumstances. As a result, Bennett's term was reduced to eight years. The court acknowledged that the offences had remained hidden for many years, only surfacing after victims felt safe enough to speak out.

The first victim described a climate of fear and violence at Needlewood House, where Bennett worked. He recounted that boys were subjected to a brutal game called 'Commando Time,' during which they had to hide from staff and were beaten if caught. This environment of intimidation and abuse created a pervasive atmosphere of terror among the children.

The second victim, who regarded Bennett as a 'father figure,' detailed his own traumatic experience. He was taken upstairs by Bennett, instructed to lie naked on a bed, and subjected to a severe sexual assault. Over an extended period, he endured multiple indecent assaults, which left a lasting impact.

Legal representatives for Bennett argued that his original sentence was too lengthy, citing his lack of formal childcare qualifications. Despite the severity of his crimes, the court agreed to reduce his prison term, reflecting the complexities of the case and the circumstances surrounding the offences.