JOHN KELLY FROM WIDNES ESCAPES PRISON AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CHILD

In a case that has left a community in Widnes deeply distressed, John Kelly, aged 25, faced the consequences of his actions in Warrington Crown Court but ultimately avoided immediate imprisonment due to his learning difficulties. Kelly, a resident of Stanley Close in Widnes, was convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl when she was just five years old and later indecently touching her when she was ten. Despite the severity of these allegations, the court's sentencing reflected considerations beyond the crimes themselves.

During the hearing, the victim’s mother, visibly overwhelmed with emotion, expressed her outrage and heartbreak. She stated, “He’s got away with it. He should have gone to prison. I think it’s appalling. My daughter has a life sentence.” Her words underscored the lasting trauma inflicted upon her child, who now faces ongoing psychological scars from the abuse.

Judge Nick Woodward addressed Kelly directly during sentencing, highlighting his cognitive impairments as a significant factor in the decision. The judge remarked, “You have a great deal of difficulty understanding things that others can readily understand. I doubt you are really understanding what I’m saying to you now.” He explained that Kelly’s psychological assessment indicated his abilities were below average, affecting his capacity to function in various aspects of life, including work, family, and social relations. The judge acknowledged that Kelly’s impairments would make incarceration particularly challenging for him, stating, “Your impairment affects your work, school, family, relations, thinking and moods. I accept these are very important mitigating factors in this case.”

As a result, Kelly was sentenced to a two-year suspended prison term, meaning he would not serve time unless he reoffended within the suspension period. Additionally, he was placed under a supervision order for two years through the Northumbrian Sex Offenders Programme, and a six-month curfew was imposed, requiring him to remain at home from 7 pm to 7 am. Kelly was also registered as a sex offender and was prohibited from working with children or young people, aiming to prevent any further harm.

Prosecutor Matthew Corbett Jones revealed that the offences only came to light after the victim confided in her grandmother about the abuse. The case was further complicated by Kelly’s living situation; his defense attorney, Gary Lawrenson, explained that Kelly resides with his mother, who works as a dinner lady and runs an after-school club. Lawrenson argued that Kelly’s dependence on his parents and his vulnerability could be exploited in a custodial setting, which influenced the court’s decision.

Following the verdict, Kelly’s father, a care home manager, was seen crying and embracing his son, indicating the emotional toll the case has taken on his family. The victim’s mother also shared her ongoing concerns, describing her daughter’s current struggles. She explained that her daughter experiences panic attacks, especially around male teachers, and exhibits compulsive behaviors such as hand-washing and maintaining perfect hygiene. These symptoms are manifestations of her trauma and anxiety stemming from the abuse.

The mother expressed her frustration with the justice process, stating, “My daughter was worried for 10 months about having to give evidence. He only changed his plea at the last minute. I think this is totally unjust.” The case has left a lasting impact on the community in Widnes, highlighting the complex interplay of justice, vulnerability, and the lasting scars of abuse.