GEORGE CRIBBETT BANNED FROM WORKING WITH CHILDREN IN BOURNEMOUTH AND JAILED FOR SEX ABUSE

In a significant case that has shocked the Bournemouth community, retired bus driver George Cribbett has been sentenced to two years in prison after being convicted of multiple child sex abuse crimes. The 64-year-old, who previously served time for similar offenses fifteen years ago, was found guilty of a series of heinous acts committed over two decades ago.

Cribbett, a widower residing on Castle Lane in Bournemouth, faced a jury at Bournemouth Crown Court last month. The court heard evidence that led to his conviction on nine counts of indecent assault, all relating to a young girl aged between nine and fourteen. Despite his insistence on innocence, the jury rejected his defense and found him guilty of the charges.

The court's sentencing was delivered by Judge Roger Jarvis, who emphasized the severity of the crimes and their lasting impact on the victim. Judge Jarvis stated, “This poor girl suffered and still suffers from what you did to her when she was a child. It is a set of circumstances so serious that only a custodial sentence is appropriate.”

As a result, Cribbett was sentenced to eight concurrent terms of 18 months each, along with an additional two-year sentence, effectively ensuring his imprisonment for the full duration. Furthermore, he has been ordered to register as a sex offender and has been permanently barred from working with children, reflecting the court’s commitment to protecting vulnerable minors in the Bournemouth area.

Following the trial, Detective Constable Bryan Colley, the investigating officer, issued a plea to other potential victims of sexual abuse to come forward. He highlighted the importance of speaking out, regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse occurred. “Reliving her ordeal in court was a harrowing experience but, thanks to her bravery, justice has finally been done,” DC Colley said. “I would urge others who have been abused, no matter how long ago it happened, to come forward. Just talking about their experiences can help.”

The victim, who remains anonymous to protect her privacy, expressed her relief at the outcome. She stated, “I’m very relieved he has been locked up again. The responsibility, shame and blame lies with the abuser, not the victim.”

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and judicial authorities in Bournemouth to combat child sexual abuse and ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions, no matter how long ago the crimes took place.