Man jailed following investigation into historic sexual assault offences

A man from Gloucester who sexually abused two girls has been sentenced to six years in prison.

Michael Joynes, aged 69 and from Brockworth, appeared at Gloucester Crown Court for sentencing this morning (Friday 21 August).

As well as being jailed, Joynes was issued with a 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and restraining orders preventing him from contacting the two victims.

The judge heard how Joynes had repeatedly sexually abused two girls under the age of 13 between 2017 and 2019.

Several years later the survivors bravely came forward and told friends and relatives about Joynes' actions before making a police report.

An investigation was launched by Gloucestershire Constabulary's Public Protection Unit and the Crown Prosecution Service later authorised eight charges of sexual assault of a child under 13, contrary to section 7(1) of the sexual offences act 2003.

Joynes pleaded not guilty to all charges against him and the case went to trial. 

A jury later found Joynes guilty of six of the sexual assault counts, not guilty of one of the counts and were unable to reach a decision on another count.

Acting Detective Inspector Jennifer Adams said: "I would like to thank the victims for their bravery, courage and strength in reporting this to us and providing such clear accounts of what had happened.

"I know the sentence given today won’t take away the horrific memories they now carry; however, I hope it does allow them to move on from the horrible crimes that Joynes subjected them to."

Our investigators are specially trained to support children who are victims of crime and ensure they are at the centre of how we seek justice.

It is never too late to report abuse that someone subjected you to. You can report a sexual assault or rape that happened at any time, even if it was months, years or decades ago.

If you choose to speak to the police about what happened, you can report by calling the non-emergency 101 number or online here: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences/ 

The National Association for People Abused in Childhood can provide support to any adult survivor of any form of child abuse. For more information, visit: https://napac.org.uk/ 

If you are worried about a child, the NSPCC can also provide support and advice. Visit: https://www.nspcc.org.uk/