TIMOTHY JOHNSON FROM REDE SENTENCED IN BURY ST EDMUNDS FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In March 2015, a man named Timothy Johnson from Rede was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison after being found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with a minor. Johnson, aged 36 at the time, had previously pleaded guilty at Ipswich Crown Court to two separate charges of sexual contact with a girl who was only 14 years old.

The court proceedings revealed that the incidents took place in July of the previous year. Johnson, who was then employed as a hotel manager in Bury St Edmunds, had given the young girl a lift home. During this journey, he engaged in sexual acts with her on two separate occasions. The details of these encounters came to light after the girl confided in a friend, and the information was subsequently passed on to a support worker who took action.

Prosecutor Michael Crimp explained that Johnson’s arrest was triggered when the girl initially denied any wrongdoing when questioned by her mother. However, she later admitted to the events, leading to police involvement. Johnson’s address was listed as Church Close, Rede, at the time of his arrest.

During the sentencing, Judge John Holt acknowledged Johnson’s expressions of remorse, stating that he believed they appeared genuine. The court also ordered Johnson to sign the Sexual Offences Register for the next ten years, a measure designed to monitor individuals convicted of such crimes and prevent future offenses.

This case highlights the serious legal consequences faced by individuals who commit sexual offenses against minors, and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young people from exploitation and abuse.