Former Priest Convicted of 21 Counts of Child Abuse

Irwin Mitchell
February 9, 2012

http://www.irwinmitchell.com/news/Pages/Former-Priest-Convicted-Of-21-Counts-Of-Child-Abuse.aspx

A former Roman Catholic priest has been convicted of 21 counts of child abuse following a 10-day trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.

Alexander Bede Walsh, 58, was found guilty of two serious sexual offences and 19 counts of indecent assault in relation to time when he was working at children’s homes and churches across Warwickshire, Staffordshire and Coventry in both the 1970s and 1990s.

He was arrested in 2006 after two men came forward to police with claims about abuse when they were children. Sentencing in the case has been adjourned.

Law firm Irwin Mitchell, which acts for those who have suffered serious physical and psychological trauma as a result of child abuse, has been approached by people who were abused by Mr Walsh.

Gary Walker, an associate solicitor at the firm who specialises in helping those affected by such problems, said: “Through our work we have seen the terrible lasting legacy that abuse by people in a position of responsibility and trust can have on victims of all ages, particularly those who have suffered such problems at a young age.

“While his actions will have left a lasting impact on many, we hope that we can help some of those affected by the actions of Mr Walsh to take steps to move on with their lives following this trial.”