Norwich man jailed for twelve and half years for child sexual assaults

A man sexually assaulted two children over a three-year period has been jailed for 12 and a half years at Norwich Crown Court.

58 year old Francis Willers, of Northumberland Street, Norwich, had previously admitted counts of 4 counts of sexual activity with a child under 13 and two counts of rape of a child under 13.

The offences took place in Norwich between 2021 and 2024 and came to light in December 2024 when the children told their school teachers what had been happening. Willers was arrested shortly afterwards and charged.

Following sentencing, Detective Constable Layla Rudd said “ I am proud of the strength and courage shown by the victims in this case.

"Despite their young age, they have shown tremendous bravery in coming forward and supporting the investigation.

"Willers abused the trust placed in him by the victims to commit the most heinous of crimes, preying on their vulnerability over a prolonged period.

"Thanks to these very brave children and the support of their family members, Willers is now behind bars. I hope the fact that he can no longer harm anyone else brings some comfort to those he has hurt.

"To anyone else who has been abused please do come forward and report it to us, no matter when it happened. You will be supported."

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.