JOHN WESTON FROM KEYNSHAM JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG BOYS IN BRISTOL

 |  Red Rose Database

Keynsham Sexual Abuser
In a case that has shocked the community of Keynsham and the wider Bristol area, John Weston, an 80-year-old resident of Old Newbridge Hill near Keynsham, has been sentenced to three years in prison after admitting to multiple serious sexual offenses committed decades ago. The Bristol Crown Court heard how Weston, who managed to forge a successful career as a teacher despite his dark past, engaged in a pattern of sexual abuse against young boys during the 1970s and 1980s.

It was only recently that one of his victims, now an adult, came forward to report the abuse, prompting a police investigation that ultimately led to Weston’s conviction. The court was informed that Weston had previously been known within amateur radio circles, which he used as a means to establish trust with his victims. His residence on Old Newbridge Hill became a place where he lured young boys, including one who stayed with him for a weekend after his mother agreed due to difficulties at home.

Prosecutor Neil Treharne detailed how Weston, well known in amateur radio communities, would invite boys into his workshop and, during these visits, would engage in inappropriate behavior. The court heard that Weston encouraged a boy to sleep in his bed, claiming it was a normal practice for men and women to cuddle, which was the beginning of a series of sexual assaults. The victim recounted how Weston touched him intimately and encouraged him to touch Weston in return, leading to a serious sexual assault. The boy described visiting Weston approximately 15 to 20 times, during which similar abuse occurred.

After the boy was returned home, Weston allegedly warned him not to tell anyone, threatening to talk to his school friends if he did. Another young boy, who also stayed with Weston, recounted how Weston showed him a calendar featuring topless women and later placed his hand on the boy’s groin, despite the boy’s protests. The same boy later woke up to find Weston with his hand on his bottom over his pyjamas.

Throughout the proceedings, Weston pleaded guilty to charges including two counts of serious sexual assault, indecent assault, gross indecency, and an indecent assault on a second boy. Judge Michael Roach sentenced Weston to three years in prison, ordered him to register as a sex offender until the age of 90, and imposed a victim surcharge. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offenses, noting that although the abuse took place many years ago, the impact on the victims has been lifelong. He acknowledged that one of the victims has gone on to lead a successful life, but reminded Weston that he must accept responsibility for the damage caused.

In his defense, Virginia Cornwall, Weston’s lawyer, expressed remorse on his behalf, highlighting his age and the potential impact of the sentence. She also mentioned that Weston believed he was in a “loving relationship” with one of the boys, aged 14 or 15, which the court found to be a misguided and inappropriate justification for his actions. The case has left a lasting scar on the victims and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing historical abuse cases, regardless of the passage of time.
← Back to search results