MALCOLM ANGELL'S SHOCKING OFFENSES IN HARPLANDEN AND ST ALBANS
| Red Rose Database
Harpenden Child Sexual Abuser
In May 2013, Malcolm Angell, a 62-year-old resident of Harpenden, found himself back in the spotlight due to disturbing behavior that violated the strict conditions of his previous convictions and court orders. Angell, who is a registered sex offender, had previously served a five-year prison sentence starting in 2004 after being convicted of engaging in sexual activities with a 12-year-old girl he met online. Following his release, he was subjected to a series of restrictions, including a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), designed to monitor and limit his behavior to prevent any further offenses.
Despite these measures, in February of that year, Angell was found to have breached the terms of his SOPO. Police officers conducting a search of his residence in Harpenden uncovered a troubling collection of items. Among the items seized were fifteen soiled nappies, which Angell had taken from baby changing facilities in nearby St Albans. This discovery raised serious concerns about his intentions and mental state.
Further investigation into his home revealed an additional thirty books related to pregnancy, as well as a nappy disposal system. Angell explained to authorities that he had purchased these items just the week prior, claiming that his interest in pregnancy and baby-related materials was purely educational. He stated that he had no sexual gratification from possessing soiled nappies or viewing baby books, attempting to distance himself from any inappropriate motives.
During the court proceedings at St Albans Crown Court, prosecutor George Heimler detailed Angell’s claims, emphasizing that Angell’s explanation was that he was seeking knowledge about babies in case he might have a child of his own or knew someone expecting. The court was told that Angell was trying to justify his actions as non-sexual in nature. Sally Jackson, representing Angell, pointed out that this recent offense was of a different character from his previous conviction in 2004. She assured the court that Angell had not breached the terms of his SOPO related to his earlier offenses and was fully aware of the consequences of any violations.
Judge John Plumstead acknowledged the defense’s arguments but expressed concern over Angell’s behavior. He described the conduct as “terribly troubling” and noted that the motivations behind his collection of baby-related items remained unclear. The judge highlighted the importance of monitoring Angell’s behavior, especially given his history.
Originally, the probation service recommended that Angell serve a community order with a one-year supervision period. However, Judge Plumstead decided to extend this to two years, reflecting the seriousness of the breach. In his sentencing remarks, the judge reminded Angell of the gravity of his past offenses, which involved molesting a child, and warned that any repetition could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
While acknowledging that the current offense did not involve direct interference with a child, Judge Plumstead emphasized that Angell must adhere strictly to the terms of his indefinite SOPO, which had been imposed in August 2012 at the request of Hertfordshire Police. Failure to comply with this order would lead to immediate re-arrest and potential imprisonment. Concluding his remarks, the judge issued a final warning to Angell, stating, “If you don’t behave, I will see you again and lock you up.” The case underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding registered sex offenders and the importance of vigilant monitoring to protect the community in Harpenden and St Albans.
Despite these measures, in February of that year, Angell was found to have breached the terms of his SOPO. Police officers conducting a search of his residence in Harpenden uncovered a troubling collection of items. Among the items seized were fifteen soiled nappies, which Angell had taken from baby changing facilities in nearby St Albans. This discovery raised serious concerns about his intentions and mental state.
Further investigation into his home revealed an additional thirty books related to pregnancy, as well as a nappy disposal system. Angell explained to authorities that he had purchased these items just the week prior, claiming that his interest in pregnancy and baby-related materials was purely educational. He stated that he had no sexual gratification from possessing soiled nappies or viewing baby books, attempting to distance himself from any inappropriate motives.
During the court proceedings at St Albans Crown Court, prosecutor George Heimler detailed Angell’s claims, emphasizing that Angell’s explanation was that he was seeking knowledge about babies in case he might have a child of his own or knew someone expecting. The court was told that Angell was trying to justify his actions as non-sexual in nature. Sally Jackson, representing Angell, pointed out that this recent offense was of a different character from his previous conviction in 2004. She assured the court that Angell had not breached the terms of his SOPO related to his earlier offenses and was fully aware of the consequences of any violations.
Judge John Plumstead acknowledged the defense’s arguments but expressed concern over Angell’s behavior. He described the conduct as “terribly troubling” and noted that the motivations behind his collection of baby-related items remained unclear. The judge highlighted the importance of monitoring Angell’s behavior, especially given his history.
Originally, the probation service recommended that Angell serve a community order with a one-year supervision period. However, Judge Plumstead decided to extend this to two years, reflecting the seriousness of the breach. In his sentencing remarks, the judge reminded Angell of the gravity of his past offenses, which involved molesting a child, and warned that any repetition could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
While acknowledging that the current offense did not involve direct interference with a child, Judge Plumstead emphasized that Angell must adhere strictly to the terms of his indefinite SOPO, which had been imposed in August 2012 at the request of Hertfordshire Police. Failure to comply with this order would lead to immediate re-arrest and potential imprisonment. Concluding his remarks, the judge issued a final warning to Angell, stating, “If you don’t behave, I will see you again and lock you up.” The case underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding registered sex offenders and the importance of vigilant monitoring to protect the community in Harpenden and St Albans.