TINA FRANK TOWNSEND AND THE HORRORS IN OLDFIELD: A DECADE OF ABUSE IN LITTLEHAMPTON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Littlehampton, a husband and wife duo, Tina and Frank Townsend, from Oliver Acre, Oldfield, orchestrated a sinister scheme over nearly ten years to exploit and abuse young girls. Their actions, which involved grooming, manipulation, and violent sexual assaults, have left a lasting scar on their victims and the community at large.

Initially, the couple lured innocent children into their home, creating an environment that appeared welcoming and safe. Tina Townsend-Oldfield, 35 at the time, would encourage young girls to stay overnight, seemingly offering them comfort and companionship. However, this facade was a calculated ploy to facilitate their heinous acts. Once the victims were inside, the Townsend couple turned their predatory behavior into repeated assaults, subjecting the girls to violent rape and sexual abuse that left them terrified and silenced for years.

Their criminal activities came to light after police investigations uncovered the stories of multiple victims. The first girl to come forward, in 2008, confided in rape counsellors about her abuse, which had occurred five years earlier. Despite her initial reluctance to involve law enforcement, her courage grew when other victims began to speak out, prompting detectives to delve deeper into the case.

Following their arrest, the couple admitted to abusing three girls aged between 12 and 14. The court proceedings revealed the extent of their depravity. Frank Townsend, aged 59, faced a grim future as he was told he would serve an indeterminate prison sentence, only to be released when authorities determined he was no longer a threat to society. His minimum term was set at 14 years. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including rape, buggery, three counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 13, indecent assault, and witness intimidation.

Meanwhile, Tina Townsend-Oldfield, 35, admitted to aiding and abetting buggery, assisting in sexual intercourse with a child under 13, and encouraging a minor under 16 to engage in sexual activity. Her cooperation with the authorities highlighted her role in facilitating the abuse and her involvement in the grooming process that led to the victims' suffering.

The case has cast a dark shadow over Oldfield, with the community demanding justice for the young girls who endured such horrific treatment. The court's sentencing reflects the severity of their crimes, and the community remains vigilant in the wake of this disturbing revelation.