ANTHONY ENGLISH FROM LINCOLN FAILS TO UPDATE SEX OFFENDER DETAILS IN COURT
In May 2022, a case was brought before Lincoln Magistrates' Court involving Anthony English, a 47-year-old man from Lincoln who is classified as a convicted sex offender.The court heard that English had neglected his legal obligation to provide an annual update of his personal details on the Sex Offenders' Register, citing a reason that he 'forgets dates.' Anthony English was previously sentenced to four years in prison in October 2004 after being convicted on two counts of gross indecency involving children.
As part of his sentence, he was required to regularly update police authorities with his current address and other personal information.
This process is a standard legal requirement intended to monitor and protect the community from known offenders.
However, during the proceedings, it was revealed that English had failed to comply with this obligation.
Emma Gilberthorpe, the prosecutor, explained that during a police interview, English admitted to forgetting the dates he was supposed to submit his updates.
She stated, “In his police interview he said he forgets dates.
He admitted the offence during the interview and agreed he was in breach of the order.” English, who resides at Doughty’s Court in Lincoln, appeared in court on May 4 to face charges of failing to provide his annual notification.
The offence was linked to his failure to update his details on March 23.
In mitigation, Sarah Freitas, representing English, mentioned that his previous offender manager would send him text reminders about the upcoming notification deadlines, including one the week before the breach.
Despite these reminders, the court was informed that the responsibility ultimately fell on English to remember and comply with the legal requirements.
Ms.
Freitas also highlighted an ironic point, stating, “He’s 47.
He lives on his own.
He has no children.
He’s on Universal Credit.
At the moment he has £1 on his electricity meter.” As a result of his failure to update his details, English was fined £200.
Additionally, he was ordered to pay a £34 surcharge to the victims of crime and £85 in court costs.
The case underscores the ongoing challenges in managing and monitoring convicted offenders, especially those who neglect their legal obligations, and raises questions about the effectiveness of current systems in ensuring compliance.
