Paul Ashworth, a 71-year-old sex offender from Carlton Colville, has been sentenced to nine years in prison with an additional year on licence after being found guilty of multiple counts of indecent assault on young girls.
Conviction and Sentencing
Ashworth, of Wannock Close, appeared before Ipswich Crown Court on Friday 4 April, where he was sentenced for his crimes. He was found guilty in his absence on Friday 7 February of three counts of indecent assault on girls under 14, involving three separate victims aged between 4 and 11 years old. These assaults occurred between the early 1980s and early 2000s.
Additionally, Ashworth pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent photographs of children and to absconding from court while on bail.
Attempt to Evade Justice
Ashworth, who was not on remand during his trial, left the court when the jury retired to consider its verdicts on 7 February and failed to return when the guilty verdicts were delivered later that afternoon. A warrant for his arrest was subsequently issued, and Suffolk Police began a wanted person appeal.
Tracked Down in Portsmouth
Police investigations revealed that Ashworth’s bank card was being used in Portsmouth city centre. With assistance from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, CCTV footage confirmed his presence in the area.
This case highlights the importance of reporting abuse, no matter how much time has passed. Authorities remain committed to holding offenders accountable and supporting victims in their journey towards healing.
