Former football coach and serial paedophile Barry Bennell dies in prison at 69

Former football coach Barry Bennell, also known as Richard Jones, has died at the age of 69 while serving a prison sentence for child sexual offences. Bennell, who worked as a coach for Crewe Alexandra and a scout for Manchester City, was described as the ‘devil incarnate’ due to the heinous crimes he committed. In 2018, he was sentenced to 30 years in prison for 52 child sexual offences against 12 boys. In 2020, he received an additional four-year sentence after pleading guilty to further offences against two boys. More than 100 people have come forward with allegations of abuse by Bennell. Recorder of Liverpool Judge Clement Goldstone QC had predicted that Bennell might die in prison when he sentenced him in 2018. This was the fifth time Bennell had been incarcerated.

Barry Bennell’s criminal activities and legal repercussions

In 2018, Barry Bennell was sentenced to 30 years in prison for committing 52 child sexual offences against 12 boys. The sentence was ordered at Liverpool Crown Court by Recorder of Liverpool Judge Clement Goldstone QC, who stated that Bennell might not leave prison alive. Two years later, in 2020, he admitted to additional offences against two boys, resulting in an additional four-year sentence. This marked the fifth time that Bennell had been incarcerated.

The Bennell case and its impact on the football community

Barry Bennell’s heinous crimes prompted a comprehensive review of sexual abuse in football. The review revealed significant institutional failings on the part of the Football Association (FA) regarding the prevention and handling of sexual abuse cases. The FA was criticized for not taking appropriate measures to protect vulnerable individuals within the sport. The findings of the review raised awareness about the importance of safeguarding measures and implementing stringent policies to prevent such atrocities from occurring in the future.

Barry Bennell’s victims seek justice

Eight men who were abused by Barry Bennell over 30 years ago recently lost a bid at the High Court to sue Manchester City for damages. The men, who were abused by Bennell during their time playing schoolboy football in north-west England between 1979 and 1985, argued that Manchester City should be held “vicariously liable” for the abuse. They claimed that the club’s relationship with Bennell, who was a scout at the time, constituted employment or an employment-like relationship. However, the judge dismissed their claims, stating that the legal action was brought too late and that the connection between the abuse and Bennell’s relationship with the club was insufficient for vicarious liability. The men have expressed their intention to appeal the decision.

Barry Bennell’s death and investigation

Barry Bennell passed away on September 16, 2023, while serving his prison sentence at HMP Littlehey. As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate his passing. The circumstances surrounding his death will be thoroughly examined to ensure transparency and address any concerns or irregularities that may arise.