TERENCE BROWN FROM COUNDON FACES LONG SENTENCE AFTER GUILTY VERDICTS ON 20 SEX OFFENCES

In a case that has shocked the community of Coundon near Bishop Auckland, Terence Brown, an 83-year-old resident of Benbow Walk, was found guilty of a total of 20 serious sex offences committed against two young girls. The verdict was delivered after a comprehensive week-long trial at Durham Crown Court, where the jury unanimously agreed on all counts after careful deliberation.

Brown faced a total of 20 charges, which included ten counts of sexual assault on a child, six counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity, three counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, and one count of indecent assault. Throughout the proceedings, Brown maintained his innocence, denying all allegations. Despite his denial, the evidence presented was compelling enough to convince the jury of his guilt on all charges.

Judge James Adkin presided over the case and emphasized the severity of the crimes committed. He remarked, “It was a strong case against him on all counts for various reasons,” highlighting the gravity of the offences and the impact on the victims. The court was informed that Brown is profoundly deaf, and to ensure he fully understood the proceedings, two lip speakers and a stenographer were present to assist in communicating the details of the case.

Furthermore, it was disclosed that Brown is currently on three different types of medication, which may have been relevant to his mental state or ability to participate fully in the trial. The judge decided to adjourn the hearing to allow the prosecution to gather personal impact statements from both victims, which are often used to assess the emotional and psychological toll of the crimes during sentencing.

Addressing Brown’s legal counsel, Andrew Finlay, Judge Adkin warned him that the sentencing would likely result in a lengthy custodial sentence. The court then granted bail to Brown, with a scheduled return for sentencing set for the upcoming Friday. The case has left a lasting impression on the local community, raising concerns about safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals in Coundon and the surrounding areas.