PAUL BRIDGEWATER FROM CRADLEY HEATH AND HALESOWEN SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES
| Red Rose Database
Halesowen Cradley Heath Sexual Abuser
A man with a troubling history of sexual offenses has been handed down a five-year prison sentence after being convicted of multiple crimes involving a young boy. Paul Bridgewater, who was once a youth leader with the Salvation Army, was found guilty of committing a series of sexual assaults spanning from 1989 to 1995.
The court heard that Bridgewater, who has ties to both Cradley Heath and Halesowen, exploited his position of trust within the community and the organization to carry out these heinous acts. His role as a youth leader gave him a significant level of influence and authority over vulnerable children, which he abused for his own gratification.
Judge Frank Chapman described the offenses as a severe breach of trust, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes and the betrayal involved. The judge pointed out that Bridgewater’s actions not only caused lasting harm to the victim but also undermined the trust placed in him by the community and the organization he represented.
The conviction and subsequent sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and the devastating impact when those entrusted with their care abuse that trust. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and aims to send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated.
The court heard that Bridgewater, who has ties to both Cradley Heath and Halesowen, exploited his position of trust within the community and the organization to carry out these heinous acts. His role as a youth leader gave him a significant level of influence and authority over vulnerable children, which he abused for his own gratification.
Judge Frank Chapman described the offenses as a severe breach of trust, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes and the betrayal involved. The judge pointed out that Bridgewater’s actions not only caused lasting harm to the victim but also undermined the trust placed in him by the community and the organization he represented.
The conviction and subsequent sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and the devastating impact when those entrusted with their care abuse that trust. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and aims to send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated.