JOSEPH CROWTHER JAILED IN BRADFORD FOR SEXUAL MOLESTATION OF YOUNG BOY

In a case that has shocked the Bradford community, Joseph Crowther, a 57-year-old man with no fixed address, was sentenced to a total of four years and three months in prison for the sexual abuse of a young boy. The incident, which spanned over a period of five years, was brought to light during a court hearing at Bradford Crown Court, where Crowther pleaded guilty to six separate charges of sexually assaulting a boy under the age of 13.

According to the prosecution, the abuse was uncovered after the young victim confided in his father, revealing that “bad things had been happening to him.” The child's parents, alarmed by the change in their son's behaviour, took him to see a child psychologist for further assessment. The court was informed that the child's conduct had altered significantly, prompting the parents to seek professional help.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Crowther, who had worked in various labouring and driving roles, had no prior criminal record. Despite his employment history, his actions had caused considerable distress and concern within the community. Crowther expressed remorse during police interviews, stating that he was “ashamed and sorry” for what he had done.

The judge, Alistair McCallum, noted that Crowther’s probation officer had assessed him as posing a high risk to young children, emphasizing the severity of the threat he represented. As part of his sentence, Crowther was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was issued a lifelong sexual offences prevention order to restrict his contact with minors and prevent any further harm.

This case underscores the ongoing issues surrounding child protection and the importance of vigilance within communities like Bradford, where such disturbing crimes have been committed by individuals previously considered to be at low risk.