LIVERPOOL KARATE CHAMPION SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
Andrew Sherry, a renowned karate champion and the founder of the Red Triangle karate club located in Everton, Liverpool, has received a two-year prison sentence following convictions for sexual offenses.He was found guilty in March of indecently assaulting a boy under 16 during the 1980s, as well as committing four counts of sexual assault against an older teenager in 2011 or 2012.
During the trial, it was revealed that the 80-year-old, who retired in March 2022 amid a police investigation, had previously assaulted a boy in the 1980s, asking him to perform "special favors" and making inappropriate comments about monkeys having sex at Knowsley Safari Park.
The second victim, who was 18 at the time of the incidents, testified that Sherry massaged his buttocks and kissed him on the lips multiple times.
Judge David Swinnerton commented that although Sherry was celebrated for his sporting achievements, his interest in young men extended beyond the realm of sport.
The judge noted that Sherry lacked control and discipline when it came to his sexuality and described the psychological and lasting harm caused to the victims.
The court highlighted that Sherry, who held a ninth dan black belt, abused his position of trust by grooming and manipulating young men for his own gratification.
The defense argued that the allegations were part of a conspiracy orchestrated by rivals aiming to oust him from his leadership role.
Sherry intends to appeal the convictions, which have significantly tarnished his reputation and standing within the community.
