FREDERICK NEWMAN'S SHOCKING CRIME IN ST ALBANS: PENSIONER SEXUALLY ABUSES 7-YEAR-OLD GIRL A GENERATION AFTER PRIOR CONVICTIONS

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of St Albans, a 73-year-old man named Frederick Newman has been convicted and sentenced for the sexual abuse of a young girl. The incident occurred despite Newman’s previous criminal history, which included convictions for child sex offenses dating back several decades.

Newman, a resident of Betty Entwhistle House on Holyrood Crescent in St Albans, appeared via video link from Bedford prison for his sentencing hearing at St Albans Crown Court. The court was told that he had admitted to two charges of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13. The assault was reported last February after the young girl, who was only seven years old at the time, experienced behavioral and emotional issues at school. Concerned teachers and school counselors prompted her to disclose the abuse during a psychiatric evaluation, which ultimately led to Newman’s arrest.

Prosecutor Edward Lewis detailed that Newman initially claimed there had been a “misunderstanding” when questioned by police. However, evidence and the victim’s testimony confirmed the allegations. The court learned that Newman’s criminal record includes a conviction from 1988 for two counts of indecent assault on a 14-year-old boy, and another conviction in 1990 for gross indecency involving a child. These past convictions highlight a troubling pattern of predatory behavior spanning over two decades.

During the hearing, Newman’s defense lawyer, Jessica Sobey, explained that her client’s wife had expelled him from their home after discovering the charges against him. As a result, Newman had been sleeping rough until he was remanded into custody. The defense also highlighted Newman’s health issues, including coronary heart disease and other medical complications, which they argued should be considered in his sentencing. Sobey emphasized that Newman himself had been a victim of childhood abuse, which she suggested might have contributed to his actions.

Judge Andrew Bright QC, presiding over the case, sentenced Newman to four years in prison for the sexual assault. Additionally, he imposed an extended sentence of three more years, which means that upon release, Newman will be subject to a license and could be returned to prison if he breaches any conditions until he reaches the age of 80. The judge described Newman as a “dangerous offender” and a “menace to young children,” underscoring the severity of his crimes.

Furthermore, Newman was ordered to comply with a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prohibits him from having unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 16. He is also required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from further harm. The case has left many residents of St Albans deeply concerned about the safety of children and the potential risks posed by individuals with such criminal histories.