JOHN SPARKES PLYMOUTH PAEDOPHILE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRLS IN PLYMOUTH
In a case that has shocked the community of Plymouth, a man named John Sparkes has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls over two decades ago.The incident came to light after Sparkes, a pensioner, visited a relative to voice complaints about allegations that had been made against him.
This visit unexpectedly triggered memories for the relative, who recalled the girls' previous disclosures, leading to the matter being promptly reported to the police.
John Sparkes, who is described as having a low IQ and mild learning difficulties, initially responded to police questioning with a 'no comment' during his interview, claiming he could not remember the events.
However, once formally charged, he admitted to his involvement, stating, "I know I have done wrong and I know I am going to have to pay for it." He subsequently confessed to four counts of indecent assault—two against each girl.
Prosecutor Emma Birt detailed that Sparkes would visit the victims and engage in inappropriate touching.
One of the girls recounted that the abuse occurred two or three times a week over a period of many months, while the other victim could only recall four specific incidents.
During victim impact statements, one of the girls expressed her fears, saying, "I didn’t think my mum and dad would believe me." The other victim shared her ongoing trauma, stating, "Even now my body shakes.
I tried to leave home when I was little because I didn’t feel safe.
I learned to cry into my pillow so no one could hear." Defense lawyer Paul Rowsall described Sparkes as a lonely and somewhat odd individual, noting that he was a man with little social interaction, often described as a simpleton in earlier times.
Rowsall emphasized that Sparkes bought the girls sweets, but argued that it would be unfair to suggest grooming, given Sparkes’s limited understanding of such concepts.
He added that Sparkes caused fear and distress, but claimed these were not intentional acts.
Rowsall also highlighted that Sparkes had no prior criminal record and expressed remorse for his actions.
Judge Francis Gilbert QC addressed Sparkes directly, who was 67 years old and residing on North Down Crescent, Keyham.
The judge stated, "You knew they were frightened of you and distressed by what you were doing to them.
I regard this as very serious sexual abuse." As a result, Sparkes was sentenced to seven years in prison.
Additionally, he was ordered to remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register until further notice and was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order, with a minimum duration of five years.
