NORMAN LAVEN FROM KINGSBURY, LONDON, REVEALED AS CHILD SEX ABUSER IN BOURNEMOUTH

In a startling case that spanned over three decades, a victim of child sexual abuse successfully identified her attacker, Norman Laven, after a long period of silence and investigation. The incident, which took place in the late 1970s, was brought back into the spotlight when the victim, now an adult, traced Laven, who was then a Royal Marine stationed in Hamworthy, Bournemouth.

According to court reports, the victim recognized Laven from photographs taken at a Royal Navy Association (RNA) event. These photographs, which showed Laven wearing his medals, were seen by the victim during her inquiries. The revelation prompted her to contact authorities, leading to a police investigation that ultimately resulted in charges against Laven.

Norman Laven, now 65 years old and residing in Kingsbury, London, was identified as the man responsible for the abuse. The prosecution, led by Martin Booth, explained that Laven had resigned from the Navy after the allegations surfaced. The Navy had reported the crimes to Dorset Police, but surprisingly, no charges were filed at the time, leaving many questions unanswered about why justice was not pursued earlier.

It was only in 2010, after the victim's efforts to uncover the truth, that the police took action. Once the photographs were examined and linked to Laven, he was formally charged with indecency with a child, covering the period from August 1976 to June 1979. The court heard that the abuse occurred during the victim's childhood, a fact that added to the gravity of the case.

During the trial at Bournemouth Crown Court, Laven admitted to the charges. His defense attorney, Ronald Jaffa, requested leniency on the grounds that Laven suffers from multiple sclerosis, a debilitating neurological condition. The judge, Samuel Wiggs, considered this plea but ultimately sentenced Laven to a 12-month prison term, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, Laven was ordered to sign the sex offender register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

This case highlights the importance of perseverance in seeking justice for victims of abuse, even after many years have passed. The court's decision underscores the seriousness with which such crimes are now being addressed, regardless of the elapsed time since the offenses occurred.