ANDREW GARDNER FROM PARTON SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE OF TWO GIRLS IN CUMBRIA

In a case that has shocked the local community of Parton and the wider Cumbria region, Andrew Gardner, aged 46, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for a series of heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of two young girls over an extended period. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of Gardner’s actions, which have left lasting scars on his victims and prompted a lifelong order to register as a sex offender.

Gardner, who resides at Seven Acres in Parton, appeared before Carlisle Crown Court to face charges that included sexual assault and the production of indecent photographs of one of his victims. His guilty plea to these serious offences was accepted by the court, which described the case as “truly revolting” in its severity and the nature of the crimes committed.

During the hearing, prosecutor Hilary Manley provided a detailed account of Gardner’s predatory behavior. She explained that Gardner had begun grooming one of the girls for sexual activity, gradually escalating his abuse over a period exceeding two years. The initial acts involved inappropriate touching, which then progressed to more serious sexual offences, culminating in full intercourse. Additionally, Gardner was found to have taken indecent photographs of the girl in sexual poses, which he stored on his computer, further demonstrating the extent of his misconduct.

Ms. Manley also disclosed that Gardner had abused a second girl. The second victim was too frightened to report the abuse earlier, fearing that Gardner might harm her if she spoke out. The impact of Gardner’s actions has been described as profoundly damaging, with one of the girls feeling her life has been irrevocably altered and believing she is worthless. She expressed her hatred for Gardner and her desire for him to be imprisoned, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll inflicted by his crimes.

In his defense, Greg Hoare acknowledged Gardner’s guilty plea as the only mitigating factor, but emphasized the gravity of the offences and the suffering caused. Judge Paul Batty QC, presiding over the case, emphasized the devastating effect Gardner’s actions have had on his victims. He stated, “This is a truly revolting case,” underscoring the severity of the crimes and the importance of justice.

As part of his sentence, Gardner was ordered to serve ten years in prison, with additional restrictions including a lifelong requirement to register as a sex offender. He is also permanently barred from working with children or having unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 18, reflecting the court’s concern for public safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals in the community of Parton and beyond.