Pensioner jailed for sex offences against children in the New Forest
The incidents took place over a period of almost 50 years
Last updated 16th Mar 2021
Michael Wort, of no fixed abode, committed the offences against three different children between 1971 and 2019.
The incidents took place at addresses in the New Forest, the exact location has not been disclosed.
The 69 year old was found guilty at Southampton Crown Court of three offences including one count of sexual assault of a girl under 13 (by touching) and two counts of indecent assault of a girl under 16.
Hampshire Constabulary say one offence took place against a child in 1971, three offences that took place against another child between 1985 and 1986 and two offences that took place against a further child between 2018 and 2019.
BEHIND BARS
Wort was sentenced to a total of five years in prison.
He was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life and given an indefinite Restraining Order against contacting his victims.
Detective Sergeant Oliver Battersby from Hampshire Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department commended the "incredible bravery and courage" of the victims in coming forward.
"These are extremely difficult times for these women and it would not have been easy, both emotionally and physically, to have to re-live their ordeals from when they were younger. "
"We know how hard it is to come forward and report these offences, whether they have taken place recently or in the past. "
"We are committed to getting justice for victims and have specially trained officers to support them through the process.
"We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of child sexual abuse to contact police on 101 where you can speak with our specialist detectives in confidence."
VICTIMS
Two of the victims also came forward to following the conclusion of the case.
"We would like to thank all the officers involved in the case and Hampshire Constabulary's witness care team, for all their support through this most difficult time. They made the whole experience of coming forward so comforting, and while it was hard, we now have closure. We would recommend anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse to come forward."
SUPPORT FOR SURVIVORS
Survivors of sexual abuse are entitled to support whether you report the crime or not.
There are a variety of different types of support .
You can visit Hampshire Constabulary's website to get information.
Alternatively, the Ministry of Justice launched a new campaign this year to raise awareness of the support available for victims and survivors of sexual abuse. This major campaign aims to help survivors take that vital first step in accessing support.
The #ItStillMatters Campaign is assuring survivors of sexual abuse that it is never too late to get support. Information is given on National Helplines and also how to access support locally. www.safeline.org.uk/it-still-matters
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