‘Sexual Predator’ Michael Pulsford Jailed Over Shocking 1970s-80s Child Sex Abuse
Michael Pulsford, 68, a former Christian youth leader, was locked up for more than eight years today after being found guilty of abusing six children over a 15-year period. The victims, who bravely confronted their abuser in Southampton Crown Court, detailed horrific assaults that took place between 1974 and 1989.
Former Youth Leader Preyed on Children for 15 Years
Pulsford, once a respected leader at the Christian group Crusaders in Corsham, Wiltshire, used his position to target boys and girls aged between 12 and 15. The offences happened at football camps on the Isle of Wight, his home, his solicitor’s office, and even his car.
The court heard that Pulsford, who also worked as a solicitor, abused his authority in chilling fashion. He assaulted three boys and three girls, exploiting young trust placed in him due to his Christian role and professional status.
Victims Recall Abuse and Betrayal
One teenage girl, who initially visited Pulsford’s solicitor firm for work experience, described how the once-innocent relationship turned sinister. Prosecutor Simon Wilshire detailed how Pulsford first kissed her forcibly and later admitted fantasising about sex with her – before coldly adding, “but we can’t, because you’re only 15.”
Another victim, a 15-year-old boy, was assaulted in a dormitory during a sports camp in 1974. Pulsford told him, “I love you,” a phrase the boy initially believed was caring mentorship – until the abuse began. A third boy froze in fear after being invited into Pulsford’s bed in 1978, but fled when the abuser grew aggressive.
Meanwhile, two girls were also repeatedly groomed and assaulted. One said she was abused every Friday during winter months while part of the Crusaders group.
Victims Speak Out: “I’ve Cried Enough Tears to Fill the River Thames”
In powerful statements to the court, victims described the lifelong trauma. One said, “I was a child in his care. He manipulated me into making a choice that was not a choice. I trusted him as a person of authority, a professed Christian.”
“I have cried enough tears to fill the River Thames.”
Another victim shared how he had blocked out much of his childhood and now battles chronic insomnia. One man was horrified to discover Pulsford had worked as a solicitor defending child sex offence cases.
Judge Calls Pulsford a ‘Sexual Predator’ – Jail Time Delivered
His Honour Judge Peter Henry condemned Pulsford as a predator who abused children for his own gratification, exploiting positions of trust and faith. Pulsford was sentenced to 8 years and 8 months behind bars. His name was added to the barred list, banning him from working with children for life.
Detective Inspector Toby Elcock of Hampshire Constabulary praised the victims’ courage. “Michael Pulsford betrayed the trust placed in him as a youth leader, causing lasting harm. We hope others affected by abuse will come forward and find justice.”
