Former actor John Alford, known for roles in London’s Burning and Grange Hill, has been sentenced to eight and a half years in prison for sexually abusing two underage girls. The 53-year-old was found guilty of various sexual offenses at a party, including sexual activity and assault, by a jury at St Albans Crown Court. Recorder Caroline Overton delivered the sentence, stating Alford must serve at least two-thirds of the term before being eligible for release under supervision.
Alford, who displayed no emotion during the sentencing, will have to inform the police of his whereabouts and any name changes for the rest of his life. Additionally, he received a restraining order preventing him from contacting the victims directly or indirectly. The court heard that the incidents occurred during a sleepover at a friend’s house, where Alford, the only remaining adult, took advantage of the girls’ trust and age, purchasing alcohol and engaging in inappropriate behavior.
Despite Alford’s legal team providing a psychiatric report detailing his alcohol dependency since a young age, Recorder Overton emphasized the severity of the crimes, imposing further restrictions, including a sexual offenses prevention order and restrictions on interacting with females under 18. The victims, who shared their impact statements during the hearing, described the profound emotional and physical consequences of the assaults, highlighting ongoing trauma and struggles in their daily lives.
In mitigation, Alford’s barrister mentioned his client’s mental health challenges and acknowledgment of alcohol issues. Alford, a father of four, faces potential difficulties in prison due to his health condition. The court also heard testimonials from Alford’s family praising him, expressing the challenges they have faced as a result of the case. Investigator Laura Harrison commended the victims for their bravery in reporting the crimes, emphasizing the zero-tolerance approach towards such offenses.
The Crown Prosecution Service highlighted Alford’s deliberate exploitation of the girls despite being aware of their ages, leading to the criminal acts. The court’s decision to issue a lengthy prison sentence and additional orders aims to deter similar offenders and protect vulnerable individuals. Alford, also known as John Shannon, will be closely monitored through various legal measures to prevent further harm.