Elderly Woman Jailed for Decades-old Child Abuse

Elderly Woman Jailed for Decades-old Child Abuse

A 79-year old Co Down woman from Comber, Hazel Templeton, was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison for sexually abusing a child in 1984. Templeton pleaded guilty to several counts of indecent assault and inciting gross indecency with a child. The court heard that despite her guilty pleas, Templeton tried to justify her behavior through victim-blaming. Judge Mark Reel emphasized that her actions were for sexual gratification and she took advantage of a child.

Impact of the Abuse

The Crown barrister highlighted the lasting impact the abuse had on the victim, stating that the incident has cast a shadow over his entire life. Templeton's defense barrister acknowledged the negative impact of her actions and the delusional thinking she displayed during investigations. Despite her remarks about the victim initiating the contact, the judge emphasized the seriousness of her offenses and handed down a custodial sentence, noting that neither a fine nor a community sentence was appropriate. Along with the jail term, Templeton was placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.