DAVID FARLOW FROM LICHFIELD AND STOCKTON FACES JUSTICE OVER CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a series of harrowing legal proceedings spanning several years, David Farlow, a former teacher with ties to both Lichfield and Stockton, has been at the center of multiple criminal cases involving heinous sexual offenses against minors. His case has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the crimes, the length of time over which they were committed, and his current health condition.

In July 2016, Farlow, aged 69 and residing in Trafalgar Way, Lichfield, appeared via video link from prison at London's Criminal Appeal Court. He was seeking an early release from incarceration, citing his terminal prostate cancer as a reason. Farlow was serving an eight-year sentence handed down at Teesside Crown Court in January of that year after admitting to 12 separate offenses committed between 1965 and 1980 in the Stockton-on-Tees area. These crimes included indecency with a child, indecent assault, and attempted rape, all involving three young girls who were under the age of 14 at the time of the abuse.

His legal representatives argued that the length of his sentence was disproportionate given his deteriorating health. They pointed out that Farlow's prognosis was grim, with his surgeon estimating a life expectancy of as little as 12 months, though the average was around 43 months. The defense also challenged the victim impact statement submitted by one of the victims, suggesting that it should be approached with caution. They emphasized that it was difficult to definitively link all of her subsequent problems solely to the abuse inflicted by Farlow, noting that she had experienced various issues in her life.

Furthermore, the defense highlighted that Farlow had maintained an unblemished life after his last known offense in 1980, which they argued should be taken into account when considering his sentence. The appeal was heard by five of the country's top judges, including Lord Thomas, the Lord Chief Justice. The court reserved judgment, indicating that a decision would be announced at a later date.

Prior to this, in January 2016, Farlow was convicted of a series of vile sexual crimes against three children, with the incidents spanning from 1965 to 1980. During the sentencing, a brave victim, who was just nine years old when the abuse began, publicly confronted her attacker in court. She expressed her desire to reclaim control over her life, stating her intention to face Farlow and make him aware that she was the one who had come forward. Her powerful victim impact statement conveyed her feelings of pain, loneliness, and despair, and her hope that others would despise him as she had despised herself.

The court heard that all three victims were under 14 at the time of the offenses, with Farlow starting his abusive behavior at the age of 17. The first victim, who was nine when the abuse started, was among those who kept their experiences secret for over four decades. Police investigations suggest there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward.

Prosecutor Shaun Dodds revealed that Farlow had previously been convicted in 1974 for indecent abuse but the full extent of his misconduct was not uncovered at that time. He was fined £200 and given a probation order. Despite being regarded as a respectable man in his community, character references presented to the court did not reveal the darker side of his life. Judge Stephen Ashurst described the case as revealing a disturbing contrast between Farlow's outward appearance and his hidden past. The judge also noted the significant age gap between Farlow and his young victims, emphasizing the predatory nature of his offenses.

In addition to his imprisonment, Farlow was ordered to be subject to an indefinite notification requirement under the Sex Offenders Act and was issued a sexual harm prevention order. His health continued to decline, and in the year prior to sentencing, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Currently residing in Lichfield, Staffordshire, Farlow faces ongoing legal obligations and restrictions related to his sex offenses.

Earlier, in January 2015, Farlow admitted to repeatedly sexually assaulting two young girls in Stockton, with the assaults occurring when the victims were between nine and 12 years old. He pleaded guilty to 16 charges dating back to July 1, 1965. However, he denied a separate charge of raping a third girl between February 1973 and August 1975. The court ordered him to register as a sex offender and prepare for a trial scheduled to begin in March 2015, as he maintained his innocence regarding the rape charge. Farlow, then aged 67 and living in Staffordshire, had no prior convictions but was closely monitored through bail conditions that prohibited contact with the victims or witnesses.

Throughout these proceedings, Farlow's case has highlighted the long-lasting impact of childhood abuse and the importance of justice for victims. His health issues have added a complex layer to the legal process, raising questions about the appropriate length of sentencing and the treatment of offenders with terminal illnesses. The case continues to evoke strong emotions and discussions about accountability, rehabilitation, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.