Bedfordshire Gardening Group Chairman Jailed for Sexual Assault

John Trinder, 74, the former chairman of a gardening community group in Bedfordshire, has been sentenced to 44 months in prison for sexually assaulting a young girl.

Trinder, of Chandler's Cross in Rickmansworth, was found guilty by a majority verdict of one count of sexual assault at Luton Crown Court on Thursday (22 July). The victim disclosed the assault years later to a member of her family, who then informed the police.

The court heard that Trinder sexually abused the young girl for his own gratification. He was placed on the sex offenders register for life.

PC Benjamin Robertson from Bedfordshire Police's Protecting Vulnerable Persons Unit, who investigated the case, commended the victim's courage and determination.

"I would like to commend the victim's courage and determination to disclose this abhorrent crime to us," said Robertson. "It's hasn't been an easy process for her to go through and I am glad Trinder has been sent to prison for what he did to her. Hopefully this prison sentence will bring some closure and allow this brave young person to move forward in life."

Robertson also encouraged anyone who has experienced abuse to speak out, regardless of how long ago it occurred. "You will be believed and we will investigate," he stated. "Our force is committed to protecting victims and bringing offenders to justice."