HENRY CAUL FROM EDMONTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING YOUNG BOYS

In a case that has shocked the community of Edmonton, a 79-year-old man named Henry Caul has been convicted of serious sexual offenses involving two young boys. The incidents took place over a span of two years, from December 2000 to December 2002, and have brought to light disturbing details about the offender's past and current health condition.

Henry Caul, who resides in Jeremy's Green, was found guilty of assaulting two boys, now aged 14 and ten, respectively. The court heard that Caul's attacks on these minors were not isolated incidents; he had previously committed similar offenses in 1981, for which he received a two-year suspended sentence. This history underscores a troubling pattern of behavior that has persisted over decades.

During the sentencing hearing at Wood Green Crown Court, it was revealed that Caul's health was severely compromised. He is wheelchair-bound and suffers from respiratory diseases, angina, and depression. These health issues played a significant role in the court's decision to impose a reduced prison sentence. Judge Mervyn Roberts, who presided over the case, acknowledged Caul's frailty and the potential risk to his life if subjected to a standard sentence.

Originally, the crimes could have warranted a sentence of three and a half years. However, considering Caul's age and health, Judge Roberts decided to sentence him to a total of 18 months for the assault on the older boy, with a concurrent six-month sentence for the attack on the younger boy. The judge expressed concern that a longer prison term might result in Caul's death, stating, “It would be unjust and unfair, given your age and frailty, to pass a three-and-a-half-year sentence upon you. I am aware a prison sentence of any length may result in you dying in prison.”

Despite the reduced sentence, the court made it clear that Caul's actions were serious. He was ordered to register as a sex offender for ten years, reflecting the court's recognition of the gravity of his offenses. The judge also noted that the likelihood of Caul reoffending was very small, given his age and health, but emphasized the importance of public safety and the need for monitoring.

This case has once again raised concerns about the protection of children and the importance of monitoring individuals with a history of sexual offenses, especially those with a pattern of offending over many years. The community of Edmonton is left to reflect on the disturbing details of this case and the measures needed to prevent such incidents in the future.