TIMOTHY CAWSTON FROM CRAWLEY ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SEX ACT IN FRONT OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN DORSTEN SQUARE

In December 2014, a 62-year-old man from Crawley, Timothy Cawston, was handed a suspended prison sentence after a disturbing incident in which he performed a sexual act in front of a young girl at a bus stop. The incident occurred in Dorsten Square on July 11, and the case was brought before Brighton Crown Court, where Cawston was sentenced on December 19.

Prosecutor Brian Noel informed the court that a bus driver had witnessed Cawston engaging in the act while the victim, a 12-year-old girl, sat nearby at the bus stop. The girl provided testimony stating that Cawston had exposed himself to her on three separate occasions. CCTV footage corroborated her account, confirming her description of the events.

It was also revealed that Cawston had a prior conviction from 2012 for sexual assault, adding a troubling context to the case. During the hearing, Cawston’s defense lawyer, Keith Goodhand, emphasized the defendant’s age and his guilty plea, suggesting that these factors should influence the court’s decision. Goodhand highlighted Cawston’s health issues, including the aftermath of a severe stroke in 2008, and his history of alcohol abuse following a marriage breakdown, which he argued contributed to his current state.

Goodhand also pointed out that Cawston expressed remorse and repeatedly stated he did not want to go to prison. He questioned whether incarceration would genuinely lead to behavioral change, given Cawston’s physical difficulties and the circumstances.

Judge Anthony Niblett ultimately decided to impose a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, along with a supervision order. The judge urged Cawston to use this opportunity to reform, warning that failure to do so could result in a lengthy prison term. He acknowledged Cawston’s guilty plea and courteous demeanor in court, and took into account his poor health. The judge explained that supervision was deemed the most appropriate course of action, citing the potential negative consequences of a custodial sentence and the challenges in supervising Cawston effectively.

After hearing the sentence, Cawston expressed his gratitude by shouting “thank you your honour” and wished everyone a “happy Christmas.”

Earlier in November 2014, Cawston had admitted to performing a sex act in front of a 12-year-old girl in Dorsten Square, Bewbush, and appeared at Lewes Crown Court. He pleaded guilty to the charge of engaging in sexual activity in public. The court adjourned the case to allow for pre-sentence reports, and Cawston was released on bail pending sentencing scheduled for November 28.