TOBY FURSDON FROM NEWARK AND WIGTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN CUMBRIA

In a case that has shocked the communities of Wigton and Newark, Nottinghamshire, Toby Fursdon, aged 39, has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for his involvement in the sexual abuse of a young girl in Cumbria. The sentencing took place at Bolton Crown Court, where Fursdon pleaded guilty to eight separate charges related to engaging in sexual activity with a minor. Following his conviction, the court also ordered him to register as a sex offender, a measure aimed at monitoring his activities and preventing further harm.

The majority of the offences occurred within the Wigton area, beginning when the victim was only 13 years old. The case has been a long-standing investigation, with Detective Constable Mark Cox, the lead officer on the case, emphasizing the profound impact the crimes have had on the victim. Cox stated, “Fursdon’s crimes have had a long-lasting effect on the victim. The victim has shown a great deal of bravery in reporting the abuse, and I hope following yesterday’s sentence that both her and her family can begin to move on with their lives.” He also issued a plea to other potential victims, encouraging anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed. “Sexual abuse and exploitation of children is not tolerated in Cumbria, and every report is investigated sensitively and professionally. We are committed to bringing those responsible for sexual abuse to justice.”

Earlier in January 2015, Fursdon appeared at Carlisle Crown Court, where he admitted to eight counts of engaging in sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl. The offences were committed in a rural community south of Wigton. Prosecutor Tim Evans explained that it would not be in the public interest to proceed with a trial on two additional allegations, which Fursdon denied. These allegations will be left on file, and the court adjourned sentencing until February 24 to allow for background reports to be prepared. Judge Peter Davies warned Fursdon that, despite being granted bail, he should not interpret this as a sign of leniency. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating, “You doubtless understand the serious position you are now in and almost inevitably the sentence will be a form of custody.”

Fursdon was instructed to have no contact with the victim or any prosecution witnesses, and he must avoid any unsupervised contact with girls under 16. Additionally, he is required to sign the Sex Offenders Register, with the duration of his registration to be determined at sentencing. The final sentencing hearing at Bolton Crown Court will include a statement from the victim, detailing how the abuse has affected her life since it occurred, underscoring the gravity of the crimes committed by Fursdon in the communities of Newark, Wigton, and beyond.