JOHN TATNALL AND RONALD REMNANT SENTENCED IN WALTON CHILD SEX ABUSE CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the Walton community, a 67-year-old man named John Tatnall was sentenced to four years in prison for a series of heinous crimes involving a 13-year-old boy. The offences, which took place between October 2006 and October 2007, included engaging in sexual activities with the minor, taking indecent photographs of him dressed in women’s clothing, and distributing these images to his acquaintance, Ronald Remnant.

John Tatnall, who resides on Ambleside Avenue in Walton, appeared before Guildford Crown Court on what was also his 67th birthday. The court heard that Tatnall’s actions involved acts of oral sex and the use of sex toys during two separate encounters with the young boy. The victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, was not related to Tatnall. Prosecutor Samantha Cohen detailed that a total of 40 photographs were taken, some depicting the boy dressed in a skirt and purple women’s knickers, posing provocatively.

These photographs were initially given to Ronald Remnant, 68, of Sunbury Lane, Walton, by Tatnall. The images were later discovered by police during a raid on Remnant’s house, unrelated to the initial investigation, when they found an envelope containing the photographs in a safe and a bedside cabinet. During police interviews, Remnant admitted that the photographs belonged to him and acknowledged that the person in the images appeared much older than the actual age of the boy. However, he claimed he could not recall who had provided the images to him.

Remnant was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for two years, and was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years. Additionally, a curfew was imposed for 28 days. The court also noted that he possessed indecent photographs, which he accepted he should have disposed of properly.

The police investigation led to Tatnall’s arrest after the victim was identified. During police interviews, Tatnall fully admitted to the activities, including the sexual acts and the distribution of photographs. His defense lawyer, Ed Butler, acknowledged the seriousness of the case but highlighted that the victim was a willing participant and that the boy had reportedly been confused about his sexuality. Mr. Butler also pointed out that Tatnall had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, demonstrating remorse.

Furthermore, Tatnall’s health was a concern; he was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2009, which resulted in the removal of two-thirds of his tongue. His health status was described as not being in good condition.

Judge Michael Addison, presiding over the case, emphasized that there was no evidence of coercion or intimidation of the victim. He sentenced Tatnall to four years in prison, with 22 days credited for time served on a curfew. Tatnall was also ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and was issued a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for five years. The court’s ruling reflects the severity of the crimes committed and the need for ongoing monitoring of Tatnall’s conduct.