ANDREW HANSWORTH SENTENCED IN POOLE FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TODDLER IN WEST DORSET
A man identified as Andrew Michael Hansford, whose actions have shocked the community in Poole and West Dorset, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of serious sexual offenses involving a young girl.The case, which has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the crimes and the vulnerability of the victim, highlights the devastating impact of such abuse on innocent children and their families.
According to court reports, Hansford, aged 29 and residing on Belben Road in Poole, was convicted of sexually assaulting a four-year-old girl on three separate occasions in West Dorset.
The young girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, bravely disclosed to her mother that she had been touched inappropriately by Hansford.
Despite her expressions of pain and discomfort, Hansford continued his assault, causing further trauma to the child.
Following her disclosure, the mother immediately contacted Dorset Police to report the incidents.
The case moved swiftly through the legal system, with the victim’s mother providing a heartfelt victim impact statement during the proceedings at Bournemouth Crown Court.
She described the horror of discovering her daughter’s abuse and expressed her relief that her daughter was now receiving support from Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services (STARS).
The mother also spoke about the profound psychological effects the abuse had inflicted on her young daughter, noting that the girl had become terrified of men and was struggling to process the trauma.
She expressed her deep concern and hope for her daughter’s recovery, stating, “I’m just happy to have my daughter back.
I don’t want her to suffer anymore.
I want her to see that not all men are monsters.
She was just a child and doesn’t deserve the hurt she has been put through.” During the trial, Hansford denied any wrongdoing, asserting his innocence and denying the allegations.
He was arrested and charged with two counts of assault by penetration of a girl under 13.
Despite his denial, the evidence presented in court led to a conviction.
Hansford, who has ADHD and has reportedly attempted self-harm, accepted that he would face imprisonment for his actions.
His defense lawyer, Robert Griffiths, acknowledged the severity of the offense and urged the court to consider the conditions within prisons, emphasizing that Hansford understood he was likely to serve a substantial sentence.
The lawyer also highlighted Hansford’s mental health issues, which may have contributed to his behavior.
Judge Evans, presiding over the case, emphasized the vulnerability of the young victim and the repeated nature of the abuse.
She described the profound distress caused not only to the girl but also to her family, particularly her mother, who blamed herself despite being blameless.
The judge noted that the trauma inflicted could have long-lasting effects, especially considering the girl’s young age and her current fears of men.
Judge Evans stated, “The effect on the victim and her mother has been one of immense distress.
The girl is still very young, only six, and she has become frightened of men, especially in the context of having to see the defendant again.
While we cannot predict the long-term impact, it is likely to be significant.
The defendant’s actions have caused considerable suffering to her family.” As the sentence was handed down, Hansford was seen with his head in his hands, appearing visibly emotional.
He was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with a sexual harm prevention order imposed for 20 years.
Additionally, he was placed on the sex offenders register for life and issued a restraining order preventing any contact with the victim, directly or indirectly.
Hansford was also added to a list of individuals barred from working with children, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the court’s efforts to protect the community from further harm.
