Couple Jailed Decades After Horrific Child Sex Crimes in Ashford
A man and woman from Ashford have finally been locked up for shocking sexual offences against children committed over 35 years ago.
Richard and Pauline Winfield Convicted
Richard Winfield, 90, carried out indecent assaults on two children during the late 1970s and early 1980s. His wife, Pauline Winfield, 82, took part in abusing one of the victims.
Following a Maidstone Crown Court trial, Richard was found guilty of multiple counts of indecency with a child and indecent assault on 22 December 2022. Pauline was convicted of multiple counts of indecency with a child.
Harsh Sentences for Long-Delayed Justice
On 6 January 2023, Richard Winfield was handed a 10-year jail term, while Pauline Winfield received five years behind bars.
The offences against the first victim occurred in the late 1970s when they were under 10 years old. The second victim was targeted in the early 1980s as a teenager.
Victims’ Courage Leads to Arrests and Convictions
The Winfields, from White Horse Lane, were arrested in 2018 after the victims bravely contacted police. Charges came in April 2020 once officers verified witness testimony backing the victims.
“I would like to pay tribute to the victims in this case, for coming forward and informing the police, and for giving evidence when the Winfields refused to admit their criminal actions,”
— Detective Constable White, kent-police/" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police
“I hope this case sends out a message that there is no time limit on justice and we will bring before the courts anyone who would commit despicable offences like these.”
