Former London's Burning actor John Alford has been handed a significant prison sentence for sexually assaulting two teenage girls.
Verdict and Sentencing in St Albans
John Alford, 54, was sentenced to eight-and-a-half years behind bars at St Albans Crown Court. The jury found him guilty of all charges relating to the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl and a 15-year-old girl following a week-long trial last September.
The incidents took place during a party at a friend's home in 2022. Throughout the legal proceedings, Alford maintained his innocence. Reports from the courtroom state he shouted "Wrong, I didn't do this" as the guilty verdicts were delivered.
Career Contrasted with Crime
Alford is best known for his role as firefighter Billy Ray in the popular ITV drama series London's Burning, which aired from 1988 to 2002. His fall from public favour was starkly illustrated by his appearance outside St Albans Magistrates' Court earlier in proceedings, photographed by the Press Association.
The sentencing on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, marks a definitive conclusion to the case. The judge's decision underscores the seriousness of the offences committed against the two vulnerable teenagers.
Impact and Aftermath
Cases of sexual assault involving figures from public life often prompt wider discussions about accountability and the abuse of power. The substantial jail term reflects the gravity with which the courts treat such crimes against young people.
With the trial concluded and sentence passed, the focus now shifts to the ongoing impact on the victims and the finality of this chapter in the former actor's life.
