Paedophile Paul Ashworth Jailed for Nine Years After Trying to Dodge Justice
A 71-year-old sex offender from Carlton Colville has finally been locked up for nine years — plus an extra year on licence — after being found guilty of multiple indecent assaults on young girls.
Found Guilty of Shocking Crimes Against Children
Paul Ashworth, of Wannock Close, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday 4 April. He was convicted in absentia back in February of three counts of indecent assault against girls aged between 4 and 11. These horrific attacks spanned from the early 1980s to the early 2000s involving three victims.
On top of that, Ashworth pleaded guilty to making indecent photos of children and absconding from court while on bail.
Sex Offender Flees Court, Sparks Manhunt
When the jury went to deliberate on 7 February, Ashworth slipped out of court and vanished. He didn’t show up when the guilty verdicts were announced later that day. Suffolk Police issued a warrant and launched a wanted person appeal.
Operation Hunt: Bad Apple Nabbed in Portsmouth
Police tracked Ashworth’s bank card activity in Portsmouth city centre. With help from Hampshire and Isle of Wight officers, CCTV footage caught him on camera. Detectives discovered he’d boarded a bus to a city centre depot and was hiding in a hotel under a false name.
He was arrested on 26 February and sent straight back to custody awaiting sentencing.
Detective Blasts Ashworth’s Cowardly Escape
Detective Sergeant Kate Bond, East Public Protection Unit, said: “Paul Ashworth’s pathetic attempt to evade justice by leaving the court when the jury went out was a final act of utter contempt towards the victims. The crimes he committed were unspeakably abhorrent and robbed the victims of their childhoods. I want to pay tribute to the victims for their bravery in working with us to achieve these convictions.”
She added: “Ashworth will now spend a considerable portion of his 70s in prison, which I hope will be of some comfort to the victims and enable them to rebuild their lives.”
Community Breathes Sigh of Relief
Locals expressed deep relief at the sentencing, praising the courage of the victims who helped bring Ashworth to justice.
One resident said: “It’s horrifying to think this man lived among us for so long. I’m grateful to the police and the victims for ensuring he is behind bars.”
Justice Served — But Warning Remains
Ashworth’s abuse spanned two decades, devastating young lives. Thanks to the bravery of victims and a thorough police investigation, he’s now behind bars.
Suffolk Police urge anyone affected by abuse to come forward. Specialist support is available from organisations like Victim Support and the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC).
This case is a stark reminder: no matter how long ago, reporting abuse is crucial. Authorities remain committed to catching offenders and helping survivors heal.
