William Thompson

William Thompson, a 70-year-old man from Peterborough, was jailed for 13 years after being convicted of sexually abusing two young girls in the early 2000s. The crimes came to light years later when the victims, now adults, felt ready to report the abuse they had endured as children.

Thompson, residing at Nightingale Court in Peterborough, was arrested in 2021 following the victims' disclosures. Despite denying the allegations of assault, he stood trial at Huntingdon Law Courts in August, where a jury found him guilty. Sentencing occurred on Friday, 14 November 2025, at the same court, with the judge imposing a 13-year custodial sentence to reflect the severity of the sexual offences committed against the vulnerable children.

The investigation was led by Detective Constable Fiona Bagshaw, who emphasised the importance of reporting child abuse, no matter how long ago it occurred. In a statement following the sentencing, DC Bagshaw said: 'I hope this outcome brings some closure for Thompson’s victims, and allows them to move forward with their lives. Child abuse comes in many different forms and can affect anyone. It’s everyone’s responsibility to help stop the abuse and tell someone, whether you’re a victim, friend or adult.' She further noted that the case underscores the police's commitment to pursuing justice for historical sexual offences against children.

The abuse took place in Peterborough, within the jurisdiction of Cambridgeshire Constabulary, highlighting the long-term impact of such crimes and the value of delayed reporting in securing convictions. Thompson's actions involved paying undue attention to the girls, leading to the sexual exploitation that scarred their lives for decades.