PETER FRANKLIN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN PURTON

In February 2004, a serious criminal case unfolded involving Peter Franklin, a resident of Reid's Piece in Purton, who was convicted of indecently assaulting a teenage girl. The incident took place in December of the previous year, just days before Christmas, and has since resulted in Franklin being sentenced to a year in prison.

According to court proceedings, Franklin, aged 58, took advantage of a situation where the girl’s mother was temporarily absent, leaving her vulnerable. The 14-year-old girl had brought Franklin a sleeping bag and some tea, possibly as a gesture of kindness or assistance. However, the situation quickly escalated when Franklin invited her to sit on the sofa where he was seated. It was during this encounter that he initiated a conversation about sex, which the girl tried to resist.

The prosecution, led by Claire Marlow, explained that the incident occurred shortly before midnight. Despite the girl’s clear attempts to stop Franklin from kissing her, he persisted, continuing his inappropriate advances. The girl eventually managed to break free from Franklin’s grasp, fleeing from the flat and seeking refuge in nearby bushes. She then contacted her father to inform him of the distressing event.

Following the assault, police were promptly involved. Franklin was arrested on suspicion of assault, and the case was brought before Swindon Crown Court. During the trial, Franklin’s defense attorney, Ian Lawrie, acknowledged that Franklin accepted the incident was a breach of trust. He emphasized that Franklin, who was considered a respected member of the local community, was genuinely remorseful and that his actions were out of character. Lawrie also pointed out that alcohol consumption played a significant role in Franklin’s lapse of judgment that night.

Judge John McNaught, presiding over the case, expressed his disappointment at Franklin’s conduct, especially given his age and previously clean record. The judge highlighted the gravity of the offense, noting that it involved a vulnerable young girl and represented a serious breach of trust. Franklin was sentenced to one year in prison. Additionally, upon release, he will be subject to a three-year period of supervision under a probation officer. He is also mandated to attend a sex offenders’ course and is required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and management of his conduct.

This case underscores the importance of safeguarding minors and the legal consequences faced by those who violate that trust, regardless of their standing within the community.