John Knowles

An 86-year-old man from Dorset has been sentenced to prison for historical sexual offences against children committed in Norfolk.

John Knowles, of Broadoak, Bridport, Dorset, appeared at Norwich Crown Court on Tuesday, where he pleaded guilty to three counts of indecent assault on two boys. The assaults took place between the 1970s and 1980s. Knowles, who is also known as Malcolm, abused his position of trust, causing significant and lasting harm to his victims.

Personal statements from the victims were read out in court, detailing the profound impacts of Knowles' crimes. One victim stated: “What you [John Knowles] did to me that week was remove from me my right to be a ‘normal’ child, a normal adult, living happily without guilt, doubt and uncertainty. The effects of your actions will last for me my lifetime. A lifetime in which I can and will never forget. There will never be a day when your actions don’t live with me, accompanying my thoughts as I go about my day-to-day. It will always live in the back of my mind, at any moment ready to be triggered at unexpected moments.”

The second victim commented: “I find it very hard to trust anyone, I am waiting for people to turn. It has been a very long struggle to start to undo this emotional, psychological and physical abuse.”

Knowles was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison. He was also issued with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). The case was investigated by Norfolk Police, with Detective Constable Claire Davey stating after the sentencing: “Knowles abused his position of trust, causing significant suffering for his victims. Both victims have shown immense strength and bravery in coming forward and reporting these crimes. I hope that this sentence allows them to begin to rebuild their lives and provides some level of comfort.”

The offences occurred in Norfolk, and the sentencing took place at Norwich Crown Court as reported by the Eastern Daily Press.