SIDNEY JENKINS FROM WOOLAVINGTON SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN BRIDGWATER AREA

In a case that has shocked the local community, Sidney Jenkins, a 77-year-old resident of Woolavington, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 18 years after being found guilty of multiple serious child sex offences. The crimes took place across various locations in the Bridgwater area, where Jenkins exploited vulnerable children over a period of time.

Jenkins was convicted following a detailed trial at Taunton Crown Court, during which evidence revealed the extent of his disturbing actions. The court heard that Jenkins committed a series of heinous acts, including 12 counts of rape, three sexual assaults, and two charges of causing a child to engage in sexual activity. These offences spanned several locations, including his boats, the clubhouse of the sailing club he was affiliated with, a caravan he kept in Cannington, and the homes of some of his victims.

The court was informed that Jenkins often manipulated his victims, convincing at least one of them to watch while he abused another. It was also revealed that he used various forms of inducement, including cash, tobacco, drugs, and alcohol, to facilitate his crimes. This pattern of exploitation highlights the calculated and predatory nature of his offending.

Sentencing took place at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, 25 January, where the judge emphasized the severity of Jenkins’s actions and the need to protect the community from such predatory behaviour. The case has left a lasting impact on the victims and their families, and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding vulnerable children in the community.