JOHN BRIDGECWOOD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN LINCOLNSHIRE
A 71-year-old man from Lincolnshire, John Bridgewood, has been sentenced to 13 and a half years in prison after admitting to multiple sexual offences involving a minor girl.The incident took place in Scredington, near Sleaford, where Bridgewood resides on Church Lane.
During a court hearing at Lincoln Crown Court, Bridgewood pleaded guilty to nine separate charges, which included a single count of rape as well as other sexual activities with a child.
In the courtroom, an impact statement was read aloud by the victim, who remains anonymous.
The statement revealed the profound and lasting trauma caused by Bridgewood’s actions.
The victim described suffering from persistent flashbacks and nightmares, which continue to haunt her.
She expressed a deep sense of betrayal and loss of trust, stating, “He took away my innocence, he asked me to keep it a secret.” Her words underscored the emotional and psychological scars inflicted by the defendant.
The court was informed that Bridgewood had no prior criminal record.
Despite his guilty plea, he chose to give a ‘no comment’ interview when questioned by police, which was noted during the proceedings.
His defense lawyer, John McNally, argued that the guilty pleas had spared the victim the ordeal of giving evidence in court.
McNally emphasized that Bridgewood had taken a significant step by acknowledging his wrongdoing, which he described as an important act of responsibility.
McNally also highlighted Bridgewood’s age, noting that he is 71 years old.
The court was told that, outside of this case, Bridgewood had spent two decades volunteering with the British Red Cross and had enjoyed a long, stable marriage of 48 years.
However, the defense expressed concern about the impact of the sentence on his wife, who reportedly does not know how she will cope with the situation.
Judge James House KC delivered the sentence, stating that while Bridgewood’s previous good character was noted, it carried limited weight given the severity of the crimes.
The judge pointed out that Bridgewood did not cease his abusive behavior until the victim reported the abuse, which underscored the gravity of his actions.
In addition to the prison term, Bridgewood was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
A restraining order was also issued, prohibiting him from having any contact with the victim to protect her from further harm.
The court’s rulings reflect the seriousness with which the justice system treats such violations, especially involving vulnerable minors in Lincolnshire.
