KENNETH HIGGINSON FROM ULVERSTON JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN

In a recent and highly distressing case, Kenneth Higginson, a man with a troubling history of sexual misconduct, has been sentenced to prison for abusing three young girls. The sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court, where the court heard the full extent of his crimes and the profound impact they have had on his victims.

Higginson, aged 70 and a resident of Pennington, Ulverston, was found guilty of three counts of indecent assault. His guilty plea came after a thorough investigation that revealed disturbing details about his offenses, which spanned over several years. The court was informed that all three victims were under the age of 16 at the time of the assaults, with one incident dating back many years, while the others occurred more recently.

Prosecutor Miss Amanda Johnson detailed the case, explaining that one of the victims had repressed the memory of her abuse for many years. It was only after another individual disclosed similar experiences that she felt able to come forward and report her own ordeal. The allegations came to light in January of this year, leading to Higginson's arrest and subsequent detention at Barrow police station. During police interviews, Higginson made full admissions regarding the allegations, which significantly influenced the case against him.

The court also considered victim impact statements, which underscored the severe emotional and psychological toll inflicted upon the girls. It was revealed that Higginson had a prior criminal record, including two convictions for indecent exposure from earlier years, further highlighting a pattern of inappropriate behavior.

In his defense, Higginson’s legal representative, Mr Gareth James, explained that his client had retired from his job as a shipyard foreman 14 years ago due to ongoing health issues. These included injuries sustained in a serious car accident in the 1960s, which resulted in a brain injury. The defense presented testimonials attesting to Higginson’s character, emphasizing that the offenses appeared to be isolated incidents. Mr James stated that Higginson accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed remorse, acknowledging that he would face a custodial sentence.

He further noted that when confronted with the allegations, Higginson did not deny or challenge the claims but instead admitted to the offenses, even though he did not remember all the details. The defendant’s early guilty pleas and full admissions demonstrated his acknowledgment of guilt and remorse.

Judge Philip Sycamore, presiding over the case, emphasized the gravity of Higginson’s crimes, stating, “It is clear the impact on all of the victims has been considerable.” The judge concluded that the seriousness of the offenses warranted an immediate custodial sentence, which was handed down accordingly. Higginson was also informed that he would be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, barred from working with children, and subject to a sexual offences prevention order for an indefinite period, reflecting the court’s concern for public safety and the protection of potential future victims.