ANTHONY FORD FROM SULGRAVE SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN OXFORDSHIRE, BERKSHIRE, AND NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

In a significant case that has drawn considerable attention, Anthony Sydney Ford, a 65-year-old resident of Magpie Road, Sulgrave, Oxfordshire, was formally sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 12 years at Oxford Crown Court on May 17, 2013. The sentencing followed a series of serious allegations involving the sexual abuse of four underage girls, spanning over three decades.

Ford had previously pleaded guilty to three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, specifically involving two girls aged seven and 13. These admissions marked a crucial part of the case, which was thoroughly examined by the court. The jury, composed of seven members, reached a unanimous verdict, convicting Ford on seven counts of indecent assault, two counts of indecency with a child, and one count of sexual intercourse with a minor. These charges pertained to two additional girls, whose ages ranged from six to 14 at the time of the offences.

The crimes attributed to Ford were committed across multiple locations, including Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Northamptonshire. The incidents spanned a period from November 1980 to April 2012, highlighting a disturbing pattern of abuse over more than three decades. Ford was formally charged on July 20, 2012, following a detailed investigation into the allegations.

As part of his sentence, Ford has been not only imprisoned for 12 years but also placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to pursue justice in cases of child abuse.

Detective Constable Natalie Thompson of Banbury Police Station, who led the investigation, expressed her commendation for the victims, stating, “I would like to commend the victims for their courage in coming forward, which was extremely difficult for them. Thames Valley Police takes reports of child abuse extremely seriously and will fully investigate all allegations presented to us.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent efforts required to combat child exploitation and the importance of supporting victims through the justice process.