October 2026

Man jailed for multiple child sex offences

A child rapist who repeatedly sought opportunities to isolate two young girls and sexually abuse them has been sentenced to 19 years in prison, followed by seven years on licence.

John Fordham, 51, from Bury St Edmunds, denied his crimes but was convicted of 12 offences following an eight-day trial.

He appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday, October 16, where he received an extended sentence totalling 26 years.

The jury found Fordham guilty of three counts of rape, four counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, three counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of sexual activity with a child.

The offences involved two girls, who were abused separately.

The court heard that Fordham repeatedly looked for opportunities to get each victim alone so he could sexually assault her.

His sentence includes seven additional years of supervision after release to protect the public.

Suffolk Constabulary explained that extended sentences apply to serious violent or sexual offending where an additional period on licence is required for public protection.

Fordham, recorded as having no fixed abode, was also made subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Lifetime restraining orders were imposed in respect of both victims, and he will be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register.