Former Manchester City and Crewe Alexandra coach Barry Bennell has been sentenced to 31 years in prison today at Liverpool Crown Court for 50 child sexual offences dating back to the 1970s.
At the conclusion of the trial which has lasted for six weeks, the judge described Bennell as “the devil incarnate” and “sheer evil” as he was convicted of abusing 12 boys aged 8-15 years old between 1979 and 1991.
Some of Bennell’s victims were in court to see today’s verdict with some reading victim statements describing the effects of the abuse they suffered which has caused many to have depression and turn to alcohol to deal with the trauma.
Despite the judge’s words; “No sentence I can pass can begin to redress the harm and damage”, it is hoped that the sentencing and subsequent support from the general public after news of their ordeals broke will set the victims on a road to closure.
Some of Bennell’s victims will also be seeking damages which will be made against Bennell’s employers at the times the offences took place due to vicarious liability. Once secured, these damages could go a long way to providing the professional help these men need in order to move forward.
Farleys specialist abuse team act on behalf of many victims who have been abused by Barry Bennell and other football coaches. If you have suffered abuse recently or historically and would like to talk to specialist in abuse claims in the strictest confidence, please call 0330 134 6430 or email us here.
