New Review of St Francis Child Abuse Claims

By Luke Gardener
Biggleswade Today
September 12, 2014

http://www.biggleswadetoday.co.uk/news/local-news/new-review-of-st-francis-child-abuse-claims-1-6294902

St Francis Home is the subject of an ongoing investigation

Ex-residents of a Shefford boys orphanage will be re-interviewed by police after a new review into claims of physical and sexual abuse was announced.

The investigation into historic allegations of physical, sexual and emotional abuse in the 1940s, 50s and 60s at St Francis Boys Home is to be overseen by Senior Investigator, Mark Ross.

A team of detectives will ensure all previous allegations are investigated and they will review all of the information provided by the victims and witnesses.

Mark Ross said: “The investigation has evolved due to the large number of victims and witnesses.

“We are now in a very different era and social attitudes and the criminal justice has changed significantly in the last 50 years.

“I aim to provide all of the victims involved with an outcome.”

An initial investigation into the abuse was first announced in May 2013 and it is understood two surviving suspects have been identified and are subject of further investigation.

Father Paul Hardy, the communications officer for the Diocese of Northampton, said: “The allegations have gone on for some years and we are very troubled that harm may have been done. However, as yet there is no proof of anything.”

Police have reassured the public and say it is vital children and adults feel able to come forward and report any incident that they are concerned about.

Senior Investigator, Mark Ross, added: “Investigating abuse of any kind will always involve issues of a sensitive nature, victims will be kept fully informed of any progress in relation to their case and given the support required.

“Many of the suspects have since died but police forces still have the responsibility to investigate these crimes and consider organisational responsibility at the time of the abuse.”

If anyone has been a victim of child abuse and not already contacted the police or anyone who thinks they may have information to assist with this investigation then they should contact the officers at Operation Haryana on 01582 473395.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, the independent charity on 0800 555111.

Contact: luke.gardener@jpress.co.uk