CHRISTOPHER BURTON SENTENCED IN CAMBRIDGE AND COLYTON FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In a case that spanned decades and involved multiple locations, Christopher Burton, aged 56, of Colyton in Devon, has been formally sentenced to serve a total of five years in prison following his conviction for serious sexual offences committed against young girls in the 1980s and 1990s. The offences, which took place primarily in Cambridge, involved indecent assaults on two schoolgirls who were just 12 and 13 years old at the time of the incidents.

Details of Burton’s crimes emerged during a court hearing at Cambridge Crown Court, where he was initially set to face trial. However, Burton unexpectedly changed his plea, admitting guilt to the charges. The court heard that Burton had also engaged in indecent acts with one of the victims in 1988, when she was only five years old, adding a disturbing layer to the case.

Prosecutors outlined that Burton’s offending spanned over several years, with the most recent incidents occurring in the early 1990s. The court was told that Burton’s actions had a profound impact on the victims, whose identities remain protected by law. The case drew significant attention due to the long delay between the offences and Burton’s eventual apprehension.

During the sentencing hearing, Michael Magee, representing Burton, argued that his client had taken steps to cease his inappropriate behavior and claimed that the misconduct did not escalate beyond initial touching. Magee emphasized that Burton had previously served time for drug-related offences and was released from prison in 2001. Following his release, Burton moved to Devon, where he established a long-term relationship in 2004. However, this relationship ended after the allegations resurfaced, causing further distress.

In his plea for leniency, Mr Magee urged the judge to consider the offences as a single, continuous fault rather than separate incidents. He expressed concern that Burton’s conviction would undo the progress he had made in rebuilding his life and repairing family relationships, and highlighted the shame that Burton would have to carry for his actions.

Judge Anthony Bate, presiding over the case, sentenced Burton to consecutive terms, including 15 months for one count of indecency with a child and another 15 months for indecent assault on a child. For the most serious offence involving the 12-year-old girl, Burton received a sentence of two and a half years. Additionally, Burton was issued an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prohibits him from contacting any child under the age of 16 or entering premises where children under 16 are present. This order aims to prevent any further harm and protect potential future victims from Burton’s access.

Burton’s case underscores the importance of vigilance and justice in addressing child sexual abuse, regardless of the time elapsed since the offences occurred. His sentencing marks a significant step in holding offenders accountable and safeguarding vulnerable children in communities across Cambridge and Colyton.