JENNIFER WOODWARD OF READING SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING TEEN BOYS

Jennifer Woodward, a registered child-minder based in Reading, has been handed down a four-year prison sentence following her conviction on serious sexual offense charges. The court's decision came after a jury trial in which Woodward was found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with two boys, both aged 14.

Throughout the legal proceedings, Woodward maintained her innocence, denying all allegations brought against her. Despite her denial, the jury's verdict was clear, leading to her conviction on multiple counts of sexual misconduct involving minors.

In addition to her prison sentence, the court mandated that Woodward be registered as a sex offender for the remainder of her life, a measure designed to monitor her activities and prevent further offenses. Furthermore, she was ordered to pay a victim surcharge, a financial penalty intended to support victims of sexual crimes.

The case has garnered significant attention within the Reading community, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety and protection of minors, especially those under the care of individuals in caregiving roles. The court's ruling underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are treated and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young people from exploitation.