THOMAS THIRWELL JAILED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN CLARE

In April 2004, a man named Thomas Thirlwell from Stoke Road, Clare, was sentenced to a four-year prison term after being convicted of serious sexual offences involving a young girl. The case was heard at Ipswich Crown Court, where a jury found Thirlwell guilty on February 26 of three counts of indecent assault and one count of gross indecency with a child under the age of 16.

During the proceedings, the court was informed that Thirlwell, aged 30 at the time, continued to deny the allegations despite the evidence presented. He displayed no visible emotion as the judge delivered the sentence. The case had previously been adjourned to allow for a probation service report, which played a role in the sentencing decision.

Thirlwell’s defense lawyer, Andrew Thompson, emphasized that the offences occurred nearly two years prior to the trial and highlighted Thirlwell’s previously unblemished character. Thompson pointed out that there was no indication of any similar behavior before or after the incident, and that Thirlwell had been employed consistently, with no history of misconduct.

Supporting references included three character references, one from a clergyman and another from Thirlwell’s wife, both praising his past charitable work and good conduct. Despite these positive aspects, Judge Peter Thompson underscored the seriousness of the crimes, especially given the breach of trust involved.

The judge noted that Thirlwell was in a position of trust, having been trusted by the girl’s mother, which made the offences even more egregious. The crimes took place when the girl was between 12 and 13 years old and involved disturbing acts such as removing her clothing, indecent touching, and forcing her to perform an indecent act. The judge remarked that Thirlwell exploited the girl’s need for attention by giving her gifts and further traumatized her by encouraging her to give evidence in court.

In sentencing, Thirlwell was given a four-year term to be served concurrently for each of the counts. The judge acknowledged his previous good character and positive qualities, which influenced the leniency of the sentence. Additionally, an extended supervision order was imposed for three years after his release, requiring Thirlwell to remain under probation supervision.

Furthermore, under the Sex Offenders’ Act, Thirlwell is mandated to notify police of any change of address or name for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from potential future offences.