Man jailed for ‘sickening’ sexual assault of three girls in Cotswolds

Walter Klen, of Farmoor, Oxford, was sentenced to 19 years in jail at a sentencing at Oxford Crown Court on Monday, July 13.

The 60-year-old was found unanimously guilty of 13 counts, by a jury which police said had to listen to ‘the most vile and harrowing descriptions’ of the child sexual offences.

READ MORE: Thames Water announces hosepipe ban starting this week

These were four counts of indecent assault, two counts of indecency with a child, two counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, one count of attempted rape and four counts of sexual assault of a child under 13.

Walker Klen, of Farmoor, was jailed for 19 years for the ‘sickening’ abuse of three girls (Image: Thames Valley Police)

The court heard that between 2003 and 2010, Klen sexually abused three children over a seven-year period at addresses in Moreton-in-Marsh in Gloucestershire and Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire.

All three victims were girls who were under the age of 13 at the time of the offences.

Klen was arrested on July 11, 2023, and charged on May 9, 2025.

He was subsequently convicted following a nine-day trial at Oxford Crown Court, which began on June 11.

READ MORE: Major delays on Oxford ring road due to traffic incident

Oxford Crown Court (Image: NQ)

Thames Valley Police’s Investigating officer Detective Constable Bryn Smith, of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “Klen’s offending was sickening, devious and manipulative and he will rightfully spend many years in prison.

“I commend the bravery of the three victims and their families and friends who had to endure hours of giving evidence in court over these nine days.

“The fact that Klen was found unanimously guilty of all 13 charges is testament to the resolve of those involved and the support they gave each other.

“I would also like to thank the jury. Twelve people from all walks of society who had to listen to the most vile and harrowing descriptions of child sexual abuse over many days.

“I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual abuse to come forward and report it to police. 

READ MORE: Thames Valley: 12 arrests and 73 incidents reported in World Cup 2026

“You will be listened to and supported by experienced officers and staff.”

Anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault can report offences to Thames Valley Police by calling 101 or making a report online. In an emergency, always call 999.

The force said: “We understand that coming forward can feel difficult, and support is available whether or not you choose to make a report to the police. Please see our website for more information.”