JOHN FURNESS FROM CHADDESDEN SENTENCED FOR ABUSE IN DERBY AND NOW WORKING IN HINCKLEY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, John Furness, a self-employed joiner from Chaddesden, was convicted of heinous sexual offenses involving two young girls over a period of several years. The case was heard at Derby Crown Court, where Furness, aged 34, pleaded guilty to six counts of sexual activity with minors under the age of 16 and under the age of 13.

The court was informed that Furness had systematically subjected the two girls to sexual abuse, manipulating them into silence and maintaining a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior over an extended period. Despite the severity of his actions, Furness’s sentencing was affected by the fact that he was convicted of multiple charges, which collectively carried a potential maximum sentence of over 21 years. However, because the sentences for each charge were ordered to run concurrently, Furness received a total prison term of five and a half years.

He was initially imprisoned at HMP Whatton but was released on licence on September 21, 2018. Since his release, Furness has found employment with a company called M2K Services, based in Hinckley, Leicestershire. The company specializes in maintenance and construction services, including shop fitting and major building projects. His current employment raises questions about the monitoring and management of convicted sex offenders in the community.

The court also mandated that Furness serve at least half of his sentence before being eligible for parole. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order, which remains in effect until further notice. The judge emphasized the seriousness of Furness’s crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community, underscoring the importance of strict supervision and legal restrictions to prevent further harm.