ANTHONY WHATLEY FROM MELKSHAM GUILTY OF ABUSING YOUNG BOYS IN SHOCKING CASE

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Melksham, Anthony Whatley, a 49-year-old man, has been found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses involving young boys over a span of 17 years. The case was heard at Swindon Crown Court, where Whatley faced a series of charges related to his heinous actions.

Anthony Whatley, who resides on Milton Avenue in Melksham, was initially scheduled to stand trial before a jury on a range of severe sex offenses, including allegations of rape and attempted rape. However, just as the proceedings were about to commence on a Monday morning, Whatley unexpectedly entered a guilty plea to six counts, effectively avoiding a jury trial on the more serious charges. Prosecutors announced that they would not pursue the additional, more grave allegations, focusing instead on the convictions he admitted to.

According to court records, the first incident occurred between early 1976 and late 1978, during which Whatley indecently assaulted a boy under the age of 16. The timeline then shifts to the late 1980s, specifically from 1988 to 1990, when he committed another indecent assault and was also charged with three counts of indecency with a child under 14. The final known offense took place between early October 1993 and an unspecified date in 1993, involving another boy under 14.

When Whatley appeared before the court last year, he denied all the allegations. The case was subsequently adjourned to May 16 for a pre-sentence report, during which he was released on bail under strict conditions. These conditions included a prohibition on contact with the victims or any other individuals under 16 unless supervised by someone over 21. Additionally, Whatley was required to reside at his home address, refrain from traveling abroad, report to the police station three times weekly, and register as a sex offender until sentencing.

The community and the victims' families await the sentencing, which will determine the length and nature of Whatley's punishment for his reprehensible actions. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable children from such predatory behavior.