Jersey choirmaster jailed for 12 years for "scarring" abuse

Tuesday 27 August 2019

A former Jersey choirmaster has been sent behind bars for 12 years for sexual abuse against four schoolboys in the 1970s that left them with permanent "emotional scarring".

Kenneth Francis, who was previously Director of Music at the St. Helier Town Church, was today handed his sentence, which included being placed on the Sex Offenders' Register, for 17 counts of abuse between 1972 and 1979.

It comes after the 72-year-old, of Akasaka in Tokyo, stood trial in Chelmsford Crown Court for his crimes, which occurred in the UK.

During the trial, the court heard that Francis's gave "stars" to some of the children that he abused - in some cases kissing them, and touching their genitals.

On some occasions, he gave alcohol to the victims.

Pictured: Chelsmford Crown Court, where Francis received his sentence.

Investigating officer DC Siobhan Murphy said she was "pleased Francis has been brought to justice for his horrific crimes" following Francis's imprisonment today.

"What he did to those children has left them with emotional scarring that continues to affect them into adulthood. I hope they can now find comfort in knowing he has finally been found accountable for his crimes and that their voices have now been heard," she said.

Francis's trial took place on Monday 15 July, following an extensive investigation that began after one of the victims came forward.

Francis was voluntarily interviewed in July 2017 and then arrested and further interviewed the following year in July. Three months later, he was charged with 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of committing an act of gross indecency.

Pictured: Francis has been imprisoned for 12 years for his crimes and has been added to the UK Sex Offenders' Register.

Speaking after his conviction at trial, one of his victims said: “This has been a very long, hard journey and it has taken its toll on myself, my family and friends... To get to this point where truth and justice have been upheld is an immense relief."

Another victim said that it was possible this case was "just the tip of the iceberg".

"There may be more out there, harbouring their scars and trying to move forward as best they can - just as I have," he commented.

“You just learn to live with it, as a dark part of yourself that you try to keep hidden away. Now I am able to let it rest for what it is. I’d like to thank the person who was brave enough to start the proceedings that led to charges being brought."

DC Murphy has since appealed to victims of sexual abuse to come forward.

"I'd ask anyone who has been sexually abused to please report it, no matter how long ago it took place. We will take your report seriously, investigate and help ensure you receive the right support."