FRANK SPALDING SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR REPEATED ABUSE IN BLABY AND WIGSTON
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Wigston Blaby Rapist
In a case that has shocked the communities of Blaby and Wigston, Frank Spalding, a man with no prior criminal record, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses committed decades ago. The 69-year-old, who resides on New Street in Blaby, was found guilty by a jury of five counts of raping a teenage girl under the age of 16 during the late 1970s. The court heard that the abuse was not isolated but part of a disturbing pattern of misconduct spanning several years.
One of the most distressing incidents took place in Wigston, where Spalding, at the time employed at Wigston Swimming Baths, committed a rape in the changing rooms. The victim, who was a young girl at the time, endured a series of traumatic experiences inflicted by Spalding, which left her with deep emotional scars. The court was told that her suffering extended beyond the immediate abuse, affecting her mental health, education, and future career prospects. She has since reported the abuse to police in July 2008, reliving her painful memories and describing how the ordeal made her feel like a vulnerable child once again.
In addition to the charges related to the teenage girl, Spalding was also convicted of indecently assaulting a 16-year-old girl in the early 1990s. During this incident, while working at a warehouse, he kissed her fully on the lips, asked inappropriate and intimate questions, and expressed a desire to have sex with her. These allegations further demonstrated a pattern of predatory behavior. Spalding, who has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, denied all charges, claiming that the accusations were false and that he had never engaged in any misconduct. He insisted that nothing untoward had ever happened and expressed his intention to appeal the verdict.
Prosecutor Simon James-Moore emphasized the profound impact of the abuse on the first victim, stating that she had been left with severe emotional difficulties, including eating disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and diminished confidence. Her educational and professional life had also been adversely affected by her trauma. The court heard that her courage in giving evidence was remarkable, especially considering the distressing memories it brought back. Judge Simon Hammond, who presided over the case, acknowledged the devastating effect of Spalding’s actions. He noted that the victim appeared as an emotional wreck during her testimony but showed great dignity and bravery.
Judge Hammond highlighted that Spalding had threatened the victim at the time, warning her that if she disclosed the abuse, she would not be believed. The judge emphasized that no sentence could undo the harm caused but stressed the importance of a lengthy prison term to reflect the seriousness of the crimes and to protect the vulnerable. As part of his sentence, Spalding was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life upon his release. The court’s decision underscores the justice system’s commitment to safeguarding children and punishing those who exploit their trust and innocence.
One of the most distressing incidents took place in Wigston, where Spalding, at the time employed at Wigston Swimming Baths, committed a rape in the changing rooms. The victim, who was a young girl at the time, endured a series of traumatic experiences inflicted by Spalding, which left her with deep emotional scars. The court was told that her suffering extended beyond the immediate abuse, affecting her mental health, education, and future career prospects. She has since reported the abuse to police in July 2008, reliving her painful memories and describing how the ordeal made her feel like a vulnerable child once again.
In addition to the charges related to the teenage girl, Spalding was also convicted of indecently assaulting a 16-year-old girl in the early 1990s. During this incident, while working at a warehouse, he kissed her fully on the lips, asked inappropriate and intimate questions, and expressed a desire to have sex with her. These allegations further demonstrated a pattern of predatory behavior. Spalding, who has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, denied all charges, claiming that the accusations were false and that he had never engaged in any misconduct. He insisted that nothing untoward had ever happened and expressed his intention to appeal the verdict.
Prosecutor Simon James-Moore emphasized the profound impact of the abuse on the first victim, stating that she had been left with severe emotional difficulties, including eating disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and diminished confidence. Her educational and professional life had also been adversely affected by her trauma. The court heard that her courage in giving evidence was remarkable, especially considering the distressing memories it brought back. Judge Simon Hammond, who presided over the case, acknowledged the devastating effect of Spalding’s actions. He noted that the victim appeared as an emotional wreck during her testimony but showed great dignity and bravery.
Judge Hammond highlighted that Spalding had threatened the victim at the time, warning her that if she disclosed the abuse, she would not be believed. The judge emphasized that no sentence could undo the harm caused but stressed the importance of a lengthy prison term to reflect the seriousness of the crimes and to protect the vulnerable. As part of his sentence, Spalding was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life upon his release. The court’s decision underscores the justice system’s commitment to safeguarding children and punishing those who exploit their trust and innocence.