Former Actor John Alford Convicted of Sex Offences
London, 14 January 2026 – Former actor John Alford, known for roles in Grange Hill and London’s Burning, has been convicted of sexually assaulting two teenage girls at a party in Hertfordshire in April 2022. The 53-year-old, born John James Shannon, denied the charges but was found guilty on all counts after a week-long trial at St Albans Crown Court. He is awaiting sentencing in December 2025.
Career and Early Life
Alford, born in Glasgow in 1971, began his acting career as a child, appearing in Grange Hill from 1985 to 1990 as Robbie Wright. He later starred in London’s Burning from 1993 to 1998 as fireman Billy Ray. In the late 1990s, he released music singles, including “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”, which reached number 13 in the UK charts. His career declined after a 1999 conviction for supplying drugs, leading to roles in films like Mike Bassett: England Manager and TV shows such as Mile High and Casualty.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Conviction Date | 5 September 2025 |
| Charges | Four counts of sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl; sexual assault and assault by penetration on a 15-year-old girl |
| Location of Offences | Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, at a friend’s home |
| Previous Convictions | 1999: Nine months for supplying drugs to Mazher Mahmood; 2019: Community order for assault and criminal damage |
| Sentencing | Expected custodial sentence in December 2025; not yet given as of January 2026 |
Personal Life and Legal History
Alford has faced multiple legal issues. In 1999, he was convicted of supplying cocaine and cannabis to undercover reporter Mazher Mahmood, serving six weeks in prison. He claimed entrapment and later sued News Group Newspapers for phone hacking and unlawful intrusion, alleging the sting was retaliation for a nightclub incident involving Rebekah Brooks. The case is ongoing. In 2018, he was convicted of assault on police and criminal damage, receiving a community order. He has spoken publicly about mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts linked to his 1999 conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the details of the 2022 offences?
The assaults occurred at a party after the girls drank vodka bought by Alford. He had sexual intercourse with the 14-year-old in the garden and toilet, and inappropriately touched the 15-year-old on the sofa. The girls reported feeling ill and one had a mental breakdown before disclosing the incidents.
Has Alford commented on the conviction?
During the trial, Alford denied the allegations, claiming they were a “set-up” and there was no DNA evidence. He shouted “Wrong, I didn’t do this” from the dock upon conviction. He also alleged the girls intended to extort money from him.
What is Alford’s current status?
Alford is on conditional bail with a curfew from 6pm to 6am, must report to police weekly, and cannot contact anyone under 18 except family. He is expected to receive a prison sentence.