BRIAN GILLARD'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN BASILDON AND ST AUSTELL LEAD TO INCREASED SENTENCE

In a case that has shocked the communities of Basildon and St Austell, the criminal proceedings against Brian Gillard have culminated in a significant increase in his prison sentence following a series of heinous sexual offenses. Gillard, now aged 75 and residing on Pentewan Road in St Austell, Cornwall, was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison for a disturbing campaign of abuse that spanned decades.

Gillard's crimes include the repeated rape of a young girl, as well as prolonged physical and mental abuse inflicted upon a boy. The offenses took place primarily in Basildon during the 1970s and 1980s, a period during which the victims endured unimaginable suffering. The severity of his actions was only brought to light after the victims, demonstrating remarkable courage, decided to speak out publicly last year, leading to his eventual arrest and prosecution.

Initially, Gillard denied many of the charges brought against him. However, during his trial at Basildon Crown Court, which commenced on July 9, he admitted to several serious allegations. These included cruelty to a child or young person, indecent assault on a girl, gross indecency with a child on multiple occasions, and three counts of rape of a girl under the age of 16, along with an additional count of rape on multiple occasions. His guilty plea marked a pivotal moment in the case, bringing some relief to the victims and their families.

Following the sentencing in August 2018, the Solicitor General Robert Buckland took the unusual step of referring the case to the Court of Appeal, arguing that Gillard’s original sentence was unduly lenient given the gravity of his crimes. The appeal court agreed, and as a result, Gillard’s prison term was extended to 18 and a half years. Despite this increase, he will still be subject to a one-year extended license period upon his eventual release, which is projected to occur when he reaches the age of 93.

Mr. Buckland expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Gillard carried out a campaign of abuse against two children over many years. I am pleased that the Court of Appeal has agreed to increase Gillard’s sentence, and I hope the victims can begin to move on from what would have been a hugely traumatic experience.” The case underscores the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse and highlights the ongoing efforts of authorities to ensure offenders receive appropriate punishment, regardless of the passage of time.

Gillard’s crimes, which include multiple instances of rape and indecent assault, were only uncovered after the victims found the strength to come forward, decades after the offenses occurred. His case remains a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of abuse and the necessity for vigilant legal action to protect vulnerable individuals from predatory offenders.