DONALD LYNCH, LICHFIELD CHILD ABUSE PILOT, SENTENCED TO 3.5 YEARS IN PRISON

In a case that has shocked the community of Lichfield, Donald Lynch, a former Royal Air Force pilot, has been sentenced to three and a half years behind bars for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against two young girls spanning several decades. The sentencing took place at Stafford Crown Court, where Judge John Shand addressed Lynch directly, highlighting the severity and persistence of his abusive actions.

Judge Shand, who presided over the case, acknowledged Lynch's advanced age and health issues, including prostate and skin cancer, which influenced the length of the sentence. He stated, "If you were a younger and fitter man I would have considered a sentence in the region of eight years. But I have to sentence a man very much older and in ill health, and that is a factor I must take into account. But there was persistent abuse."

Donald Lynch, 74 years old and residing on Tamworth Road in Lichfield, was convicted in May on 14 charges of indecent assault. The charges detailed offenses against one girl from 1960 to 1972, and against a second girl in 1992. The court found sufficient evidence to convict him of these serious crimes, which have left lasting scars on the victims.

As part of his sentence, Lynch was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for the remainder of his life, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his movements to prevent further harm. The case has brought to light the disturbing reality of long-term abuse and the importance of justice for victims who endured these crimes over many years.

During the proceedings, Mr. Michael Grey, Lynch’s defense lawyer, expressed concern over his client’s health and personal circumstances. He stated, "His wife suffers from angina, and it is another concern for him because he will not be able to support her. He is in ill health, and the effect of a prison sentence on him will be a punishment perhaps more than to others." The court’s decision reflects a careful consideration of Lynch’s age, health, and the gravity of his offenses, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance and justice in cases of child abuse.