BRIAN CAMP FROM SAFFRON WALDEN ESCAPES JAIL SENTENCE DESPITE CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a case that has shocked the community of Saffron Walden, 63-year-old Brian Camp was found guilty of multiple serious charges involving teenage boys but narrowly avoided imprisonment due to the judge's consideration of his previously unblemished record and personal circumstances.

Camp, who resides on Victoria Avenue in Saffron Walden, was convicted of three counts of indecent assault against teenage boys and one count of inciting a child to commit an act of gross indecency. The offences occurred between February and March of the previous year while he was living in the town, specifically on Abbey Lane.

During the proceedings at Chelmsford Crown Court, prosecutor Charles Digby detailed how Camp had befriended local boys, some of whom would visit him regularly. The court heard that on one occasion, Camp asked a 14-year-old boy to remove his trousers and then spanked him on the back of his legs near his bottom. Additionally, he requested the boy to perform a sexual act in a corner of the room. On another occasion, a 13-year-old boy was similarly asked to take down his trousers and was spanked by Camp.

When questioned by police, Camp admitted to having befriended the boys but denied any sexual activity. His defence lawyer, John Harrison, emphasized Camp’s previously good character, highlighting his contributions to the community through first aid work with St John Ambulance. Harrison also pointed out Camp’s health issues, including serious pneumonia, a collapsed lung in July 2003, and a recent hip operation, suggesting these factors contributed to his actions.

The judge, Christopher Ball QC, addressed Camp directly during sentencing, stating, “My task isn’t made any easier because of your inability to face up to what you have done. You’re a man who has had an impeccable past. You have done much to help people through the years. Now you have let yourself down badly.”

Judge Ball explained that, despite the gravity of the offences, the court considered the exceptional circumstances, including Camp’s previous good character and health issues, which led to the decision to suspend his nine-month prison sentence for two years. Camp was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for ten years and was disqualified from working with children.

Following the court hearing, Camp publicly maintained his innocence, stating, “I am not going to hide away. I have the support of my friends and family.” He expressed disappointment over the allegations, asserting, “I trusted these boys who helped me with things like shopping. I did not touch them and feel very disappointed by what they said.”

Camp mentioned the possibility of appealing the verdict but noted that his ongoing health problems were a significant concern. The case has left many in Saffron Walden contemplating the serious issues surrounding trust and community safety.