Charlie Pearson

Charlie Pearson, a 75-year-old resident of Camberley in Surrey, has been imprisoned for over a decade following his conviction for serious child sexual offences. The case, investigated by Surrey Police's Child Abuse Team, came to light in December 2021 when a family member of the victim reported concerns to authorities. Pearson was found guilty at Guildford Crown Court after a weeks-long trial, where compelling forensic evidence, along with testimony from the victim and an eyewitness, led the jury to convict him despite his adamant denials during interviews and the proceedings.

The offences involved two counts of sexual assault by touching and one count of sexual assault by penetration, all perpetrated against a child under the age of 13. Investigations revealed that Pearson assaulted the victim at his home on at least one occasion and subsequently attempted to cover his tracks with a series of lies. The court heard how Pearson, described by Detective Constable Claire Phillips as a 'predator who poses a serious risk to children', exploited his position to commit these despicable acts.

On Friday, following the trial, Pearson was sentenced to 10 and a half years in jail, with an additional year on licence. In addition to the custodial sentence, he was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Restraining Order, both to remain in effect indefinitely. The sentencing took place at Guildford Crown Court, highlighting the severity of the crimes and the ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable children in Surrey.

Detective Constable Claire Phillips, the investigating officer, commended the bravery of the victim and their family in her statement: 'Firstly I would like to acknowledge the bravery of the victim and their family in coming forward to us to report this despicable behaviour. Their bravery in supporting the investigation and trial has directly resulted in Charlie Pearson spending the next 10 and a half years in prison, and for that I cannot commend them enough.' She further emphasised Pearson's dangerous nature, stating: 'Charlie Pearson is a predator who poses a serious risk to children, and we are pleased that he will now be in prison where he won’t be able to cause harm.' This case underscores the importance of thorough police investigations in bringing paedophiles to justice, as reported by the Farnham Herald on 27th April 2025.