Man jailed for 18 years for child sex offences

Two girls who were sexually abused by a man in Wisbech say they finally feel 'free' after seeing him jailed for 18 years.

Andrew Howell, aged 37, of Llandusyl, Carmarthenshire  - but formerly of Wisbech - had denied a catalogue of offences against the two victims but was jailed last month after being found guilty by a jury at Peterborough Crown Court.

The offences took place in the Wisbech and King's Lynn area between 2021-2023 and came to light when one of the victims rang a helpline to report it.

In July 2024 Howell was charged with 24 offences:

• 13 counts of sexual activity with a child
• 1 count of rape of a child
• 2 counts of attempted rape of a child
• 3 counts of making indecent photographs of children
• 5 counts of inciting sexual activity with a child.

His first court appearance was August 2024 but he refused to admit his guilt.

However at a trial at Peterborough Crown Court on 1 December 2025 a jury found him guilty of all charges and he was sentenced (at the same court on 25 February 2026) to 18 years' imprisonment. He was also put on the sex offenders register for life.

In a statement read to the court one of the young victims spoke of the importance of seeing her abuser behind bars.

Addressing Howell she said, "You are a manipulative and insecure monster and are finally where you belong.

“Sometimes I feel like I can finally go to sleep, at ease, knowing there's no way of you ever getting to me again and then there you are, appearing in my nightmares.

"But I have finally started to realise that not everyone is as evil as you. Despite the battles I fight every day, I have grown into a strong, confident and independent women who is falling back in love with her life.  You would be intimidated by this new person I am today.

"After everything you put me through, it matters to me that the sentence reflects the truth of what really happened...it's part of finally getting closure and being able to keep moving forward with the life I am rebuilding for myself."

The other victim said, " For me, a proper sentence is not just about punishment, it is about finally being able to move forward, begin healing, and feel that the truth of what happened to me has been heard and believed.

"At the end of the day, I know I will never fully recover and heal from what he did to me. However, I am now so strong and incredibly proud of myself for continuing to live my life, one that is now filled with happiness and love.

"Although I will carry these scars for a long time, possibly even forever, I feel free. Free from pain, free from fear and most of all free from the monster himself".

Following sentencing Detective Constable Christina Wilkinson praised the victims for their bravery.

“From the very start of this investigation, both victims have shown remarkable courage. Their strength and honesty have been central to securing this conviction, and this outcome is a testament to their resilience.

“Howell’s continued refusal to take responsibility for his actions, and his decision to put the victims through the ordeal of a trial, highlights the level of manipulation and harm he inflicted. Despite this, the victims stood firm, and I hope this sentence brings them some measure of closure as they continue rebuilding their lives.

“I want to reassure anyone who has experienced abuse that we will listen, we will support you, and we will do everything we can to bring offenders to justice.

 "If this has happened to you or someone you know, then please come forward and report it to us, no matter when it happened. You will be given help and support by our dedicated teams."

To report a sexual offence, call 999 in an emergency. 101 is the non-emergency police number to report a crime or you can access help and support services here.