Worthing Pensioner Sentenced to Four Years in Jail for Child Sexual Abuse

Michael Lamb, 76, of Melrose Avenue, Worthing, has been sentenced to four years in prison for sexually abusing a young girl. Lamb was found guilty of sexual assault by touching on a child under the age of 13, and causing or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.

The victim, who first came forward to police in January 2020, showed "huge courage" according to Detective Constable Cheyne Garrett, the investigating officer. "The victim showed huge courage to come forward and report [this] which took place when she was a very young girl," said DC Garrett.

Lamb was arrested and charged in January 2020. He stood trial at Lewes Crown Court earlier this year where a jury found him guilty of all charges. He was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on May 5.

In addition to the four-year prison sentence, Lamb was placed on the sex offenders register and was also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. This order prohibits him from having unsupervised contact with children, residing or working with children and young people, or approaching or talking with children.

"Lamb denied the offences and has caused trauma to the victim and her family by making them go through a criminal trial," said DC Garrett. "This case demonstrates that we take historic sexual abuse very seriously. The victim received support from specialist officers throughout the process. We were determined to get justice for the victim, and following a thorough investigation we are pleased with the jury's verdict."