JOHN ALLISON FROM GILLINGHAM INVOLVED IN CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE CASE AT LOCAL CHURCH

On July 29, 2011, a disturbing case emerged involving a family who was forced to leave their home in Gillingham due to the actions of a local church server accused of heinous crimes against a young girl. The family, deeply traumatized by the incident, decided to relocate hundreds of miles away, fearing that the perpetrator, John Allison, might evade justice or receive a lenient sentence.

John Allison, a resident of Duncan Road in Gillingham, has admitted to sexually abusing a pre-school-aged girl. The case has been complicated by delays in sentencing, as the court has ordered a psychological assessment to determine his mental state before proceeding further. This delay has only heightened the family's distress and frustration, as they believe justice should be swift and uncompromising.

The victim's stepfather expressed his outrage, stating, "It’s like saying it is OK as long as you don’t do it again. And I think when you have done something like that, it’s in you. We worry that he will do it again to another child." He further explained that the psychological evaluation was unnecessary, asserting, "There is nothing wrong with him. It is frustrating that we are facing another delay — he should be in prison now."

Allison, who served at Our Lady of Gillingham Roman Catholic Church located on Ingram Road, was apprehended after the young girl confided in her stepfather that Allison had allowed her to touch his private parts. The girl later told police that Allison had asked her to touch his "wobbly bits," a term she used to describe his genitals.

Following his arrest, Allison admitted to the charges almost immediately. He was scheduled to be sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on a Friday after pleading guilty to engaging in sexual activity with a child. However, the case was adjourned to allow for a psychological assessment, prompted by concerns raised by Allison’s mother, which could influence the court’s decision.

The girl’s stepfather revealed that their family had decided to move away from the Medway area entirely. "We have moved to the other end of the country because we don’t want our daughter growing up in Medway, especially if Allison is going to be around. We want to make a fresh start," he said.

During the hearing, Tom Allen, representing Allison, argued that a suspended sentence, as recommended in a probation report, might be appropriate. He emphasized that Allison did not deny his actions and understood the harm caused, suggesting that a suspended sentence could serve both punishment and community interests.

However, Judge Philip St John-Stevens cautioned against assumptions, stating, "He must not think that is any promise about what the ultimate sentence will be. It may well be a custodial sentence is the only sentence which is appropriate." The judge’s remarks underscored the seriousness of the case and the possibility that Allison could face imprisonment, depending on the outcome of the psychological assessment and further legal proceedings.