Are Crown Court records made public ?

[flump1]

I would like to check on a person I used to know, I know he has been jailed, I don't know how long for. Are there records I can peruse at my leisure ? This person has committed a heinous crime and I am hoping neighbours' gossip is correct.

[atalanta]

If the case went to Crown Court, you may have a small chance of finding out. If it was dealt with by magistrates, your only hope is the local newspaper ( ask in your Public Library, Local Studies collection) If the local newspaper has been digitised, you will be able to search electronically for his name, but if not, it will be a slog. I hope you have some idea of when the supposed crime was committed.
If he is likely to be on the sex-offenders register, and if you have children, try asking the local police

[flump1]

Thank you atalanta, I will endeavour forthwith !

[sherrardk]

You could try the Law Pages. You have to register but they don't contact you. It's a bit of a chore, but if you have the full name it will help.

[flump1]

Thanks for that sherrardk, I will go have a look now.

[flump1]

Hi 10 Clarion St, I used to pass the time of day and exchange banter with my neighbour, when he was suddenly arrested and incarcerated . The charge against him was child molestation. Another neighbour mentioned today that the perpetrator had been sentenced to a long long time away and I would like to assure myself this is so.

[woofgang]

That's a fascinating website, many thanks.

[ojread2]

"If he is likely to be on the sex-offenders register, and if you have children, try asking the local police"

What? You think the local police are going to tell you if one of your neighbours is on the sex offenders registered? Like you pop in and ask the desk sergeant?
I hope this would nor could ever happen!

[EDDIE51]

If you know his name and the court / date the records of the trial will be available. You say he went 'away for a long time' so it must be Crown court.
Otherwise look through the local papers around the date he went to court, if he went down for a long time it will be in the papers. You could also try Googling his name and see what comes up.