Survivors of Paedophile Priest Dennis Finbow Urged to Seek Justice

Andrew Grove & Co Solicitors, which specialises in abuse claims, is urging victims of former priest Dennis Finbow to come forward and seek justice through the civil courts.

Finbow, 77, who was convicted in early 2023 for sexually abusing a child in the 1980s, had his prison sentence extended by 11 years at a hearing at Cambridgeshire Crown Court on Friday (10^th October).

After claiming allegations against him were “nonsense” in police interviews, he later admitted to 15 counts of child sexual offences against children spanning from 1974 to the early 1990s.

The offences involved multiple victims – both boys and girls – whom he met through his work as a priest within the Catholic Church.

Finbow was also handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Solicitor Katherine Yates from Andrew Grove & Co in Fen Ditton, Cambridge welcomed the sentencing and urged survivors to seek compensation for the abuse they endured.

“This case is another reminder that justice can still be achieved, no matter how much time has passed,” explained Katherine.

“Survivors of abuse often carry the trauma for decades, but it is never too late to come forward. Civil claims can provide not just financial redress, but also a sense of validation and closure that many survivors desperately need.”

Katherine emphasised that while criminal proceedings punish the offender, the civil courts offer an important route for victims to seek compensation and accountability from individuals and institutions that failed to protect them.

“We work with survivors, on a no win, no fee basis, to make the process as supportive and transparent as possible,” she added. “Every case is different, but every survivor deserves to be heard and believed.”

Detective Constable Annette Renwick, who led the investigation, commended the victims’ “patience, understanding and bravery” and noted that the case had been long and complex, involving multiple incidents of abuse across Cambridgeshire.

Andrew Grove & Co Solicitors is now encouraging anyone who has experienced sexual abuse – whether recent or historic – to seek legal advice in confidence.

Anyone affected by abuse can contact Katherine Yates or Sophie Taylor at Andrew Grove & Co Solicitors on 01223 367133 or 07810 224545 or by email at katherine@andrewgroveandco.com or sophie@andrewgroveandco.com for free, confidential advice.