Paedophile Michael Coburn jailed for 23 years after abusing two girls
Horrific abuse uncovered after victims brave police
Michael Coburn, 49, from Spitfire Way, Hamble-le-Rice, has been locked up for 23 years after being found guilty of 19 sexual offences against two girls. The vile crimes took place between 2018 and 2022 while Coburn was living in Billingshurst, Hampshire.
The victims came forward in January 2022, triggering a police investigation that exposed Coburn’s horrific abuses.
Convicted of multiple sexual crimes against children
Coburn was convicted at Lewes Crown Court in August 2022 following a trial where he denied all charges. The jury found him guilty of:
- 11 counts of sexual assault of a child under 13
- 4 counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in a sexual act
- 2 counts of assault by penetration of a child under 13
- 2 counts of attempted rape of a child under 13
On September 29, Coburn was sentenced to 18 years behind bars plus five years on licence. He will also remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Police praise victims’ courage
Detective Police Constable Jason Berney from the Safeguarding Investigations Unit praised the girls for their bravery.
“I would like to commend the bravery of both victims in coming forward and giving evidence. They have been supported by specially-trained officers throughout the investigation,” he said.
“This was an extremely emotional case and the courage of the victims in coming forward has allowed us to ensure that a dangerous offender is no longer on the streets.”
