KENNETH KEARSLEY OF CREWE SENTENCED TO INDEFINITE IMPRISONMENT FOR CHILD ABUSE

In a case that has shocked the community of Crewe, Kenneth Kearsley, a 68-year-old man with a troubling history of sexual offenses against children, has been sentenced to an indefinite period of imprisonment for heinous crimes committed against an eight-year-old girl. The sentencing took place at Chester Crown Court, where the details of Kearsley's actions and his criminal background were thoroughly examined.

It was revealed that Kearsley, who resides at Brookfield Court in Crewe, was already listed on the Sex Offenders’ Register at the time of the offenses last year. His criminal record is extensive, including a previous four-year prison sentence handed down in 2000 for four counts of indecent assault on a child. Additionally, he has two other convictions related to child abuse from the 1970s, underscoring a long history of predatory behavior.

During the court proceedings on Friday, the prosecution outlined the disturbing details of Kearsley's latest crimes. It was established that he took advantage of the young girl, engaging in sexual assault on two separate occasions. Furthermore, he committed acts of a sexual nature in front of her on three different occasions and showed her explicit images, actions that have left a lasting impact on the victim.

Prosecutor Peter Hussey QC described how Kearsley, after being confronted about his conduct, expressed remorse but also begged for forgiveness. He pleaded guilty on January 9 to all seven charges brought against him. Hussey recounted that Kearsley was aware of the severity of his actions and feared the consequences, stating, “He expressed remorse and a hope that the matter would not be reported to the police because he would go to jail straight away.” Following his arrest, Kearsley was taken into custody.

Hussey further explained that despite undergoing an operation aimed at suppressing his sexual urges since his last release from prison, Kearsley still managed to commit these grave offenses. This detail highlights the ongoing risk he poses to the community.

In his defense, Gareth Robinson emphasized Kearsley's remorse and shame, expressing hope that the young girl involved would eventually be able to recover from her traumatic experience. Robinson acknowledged the profound consequences Kearsley has faced, stating, “He has lost everything.”

Judge David Hale delivered a stern judgment, condemning Kearsley's actions. He stated, “She was a happy, innocent child and you could not resist abusing her, which you did repeatedly.” The judge emphasized that given Kearsley's history of serious offenses, the only appropriate sentence was an indeterminate term for public protection. This means that others will decide when, or if, he is deemed safe for release. The judge made it clear that Kearsley must serve a minimum of four years before he can be considered for parole, but the possibility of remaining incarcerated indefinitely remains, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the danger he continues to pose.