DARWEN SEX OFFENDER CLIFFORD DELAFIELD ALLOWED OUT FOR MOTHER'S FUNERAL IN PLEASINGTON

In a rare and controversial decision, Clifford Delafield, a convicted sex offender currently serving an indefinite life sentence at Wakefield High Security Prison, was granted temporary release to attend the funeral of his mother in Pleasington. The event took place at Pleasington Crematorium, where family and friends gathered to pay their respects.

Delafield, a former soldier from Darwen, was sentenced in 1990 after admitting to a series of heinous crimes. His criminal record includes attacks on at least eight children aged between three and twelve years old. Psychiatric evaluations described him as extremely dangerous and a sexual deviant, highlighting the severity of his mental health issues and the threat he posed to society.

During his trial at Liverpool Crown Court, the judge explicitly stated that Delafield was a danger to children. He was convicted of multiple serious offenses, including rape, sodomy, and seven counts of indecent assault. The court's verdict reflected the grave concern over his potential to reoffend, leading to his life sentence.

On the day of the funeral, Delafield was transported to the crematorium in a vehicle shortly after the funeral cortege arrived. He was seen emerging from the car in handcuffs and chains, flanked by two prison officers, emphasizing the security measures in place. Despite his restraints, he was permitted to embrace and kiss family members and friends before entering the chapel for a brief memorial service.

This incident has sparked debate over the appropriateness of granting such privileges to high-risk offenders, especially in cases involving victims of similar age groups. The decision to allow Delafield out of prison, even temporarily, underscores ongoing concerns about the management and rehabilitation of dangerous sex offenders in the UK.