ASHLEY GIBBONS FROM SCUNTHORPE SENTENCED TO 16 YEARS FOR HORRIFIC ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL AND BOY IN SCUNTHORPE

In a case that has shocked the community of Scunthorpe, Ashley Gibbons, aged 26, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 16 years after being found guilty of committing a series of heinous sexual offenses involving a young girl and a young boy. The crimes, described by the court as both 'horrendous' and 'horrific,' have left deep scars on the victims' families and have caused widespread distress within the local area.

Gibbons, who resides on Cottage Beck Road in Scunthorpe, faced a jury at Grimsby Crown Court where he denied multiple charges, including three counts of rape and three counts of sexual activity with a child involving the girl. Despite his denials, the jury convicted him on all counts after a thorough trial. Additionally, Gibbons was found guilty of two counts of sexually assaulting the boy and engaging in sexual activity with him, further compounding the severity of his crimes.

Prosecutor Richard Woolfall emphasized the profound impact these offenses have had on the victims' families. The mother of the girl provided a heartfelt statement, revealing that her daughter's behavior had undergone a significant change since the incidents, and her academic performance had suffered as a result. The mother of the boy expressed her devastation, describing the crimes as 'horrific' and warning that the emotional scars would persist for many years to come. She also described how Gibbons had stolen the boy’s innocence through his vile actions, leaving her 'absolutely devastated.' Despite the trauma inflicted, she praised her son for his resilience, noting that he had been 'incredibly strong' throughout the ordeal.

During the sentencing, Recorder Bernard Gateshill condemned Gibbons for his cold and calculated abuse, stating, 'You abused them in a cold and calculated way for your own perverse sexual desires. You had opportunities to be alone with them. You have seen the disastrous effects your abuse has had.' The court acknowledged that Gibbons had no prior convictions and was employed in a responsible job at the time of his arrest. However, the court also ordered that Gibbons serve an extended period of supervision after his release, with a further year on license to ensure he remains under scrutiny.

This case has left a lasting impact on the community of Scunthorpe, highlighting the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable children from such heinous acts.