JOHN BURNS, GOSPORT AND HAVANT PAEDOPHILE, SENTENCED FOR ABUSING FIVE YOUNG GIRLS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Gosport and Havant, John Burns, a 21-year-old man, was found guilty of sexually abusing five young girls aged between nine and 12 over a period of two years. The abuse took place while the victims were out playing in their local neighborhoods, causing lasting trauma and devastating the innocence of these children.

Burns, who resides on Chalton Crescent in Havant, was convicted by a jury at Portsmouth Crown Court of five counts of sexual assault on a child under the age of 13. The court heard that the offences occurred between 2009 and 2010, with the victims subjected to repeated abuse during this period. The details of the case revealed a pattern of predatory behavior that has left the victims and their families deeply distressed.

Following the conviction, Judge Richard Price delivered a stern sentence, ordering that Burns be detained in a secure mental health hospital until medical professionals determine he is no longer a danger to children. The judge emphasized the severity of Burns' actions, describing the offences as 'disgusting' and highlighting that Burns exploited the innocence of vulnerable children for his own sexual gratification. He made it clear that Burns was fully aware of the wrongfulness of his actions and that his mental health issues played a significant role in the case.

The judge warned Burns that he would not be released until doctors certify that he is safe to re-enter society, stating, 'You will stay detained in hospital until such time as the doctors say that you are safe. It may be years, it may be never.' This reflects the serious concern about Burns' potential to reoffend, and the court's commitment to protecting the community from future harm.

The victims, whose identities are protected for legal reasons, had to give evidence during the trial, which was described as 'horrendous' and 'traumatic' by one of the victims' mothers. She expressed her horror and disgust at Burns' actions, stating, 'It’s just disgusting. It’s a child’s innocence he has taken away from them.' The mother also condemned Burns' apparent outward appearance, noting that he looks harmless but committed these heinous acts.

Burns will be detained at Westview, a mental health facility in Southampton, where he will undergo treatment. Upon eventual release, he will be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which prohibits him from living in a household with children, having any contact with minors, or working with children in any capacity. Additionally, Burns will be registered as a sex offender for the next seven years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions aimed at preventing further offenses.

This case underscores the importance of vigilant community safety measures and the ongoing need for mental health assessments in cases involving sexual offenses against minors. The communities of Gosport and Havant are left to grapple with the aftermath of this disturbing series of events, hoping that justice has been served and that measures are in place to prevent such tragedies from recurring.