CHRISTOPHER GILLARD FROM LAUNCESTON JAILED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN WEST MALLING AND SITTINGBOURNE

In a case that has spanned decades and involved multiple locations, Christopher Gillard, a man formerly residing in Launceston, Cornwall, has been sentenced to prison for heinous crimes committed against young children. The offenses took place primarily in West Malling and Sittingbourne during the late 1980s and throughout the 1990s, revealing a disturbing pattern of abuse that has only now come to light.

The investigation into Gillard’s actions was initiated by Kent Police in December 2015, after one of his victims courageously came forward to report the abuse. This initial disclosure prompted a thorough inquiry, which uncovered evidence that Gillard had targeted and assaulted a total of four children over a period exceeding ten years. The victims ranged in age from as young as three years old, highlighting the severity and depravity of his crimes.

During the court proceedings at Maidstone Crown Court, it was revealed that Gillard had carried out these assaults on multiple occasions between 1987 and 1999. At the time, he was living in Sittingbourne, but he also maintained connections to West Malling, where some of the abuse occurred. The court heard that Gillard initially denied any wrongdoing, claiming that his interactions with the children were merely ‘play fighting,’ a defense that was met with skepticism given the nature of the allegations.

Gillard, who is now 64 years old and was formerly of Penscombe Cross, Lezant, Launceston, in Cornwall, faced eight counts of indecent assault. Despite his initial denials, he ultimately pleaded guilty to five of these charges. The remaining three charges were ordered by the judge to remain on file, indicating that they could be considered in future proceedings or sentencing.

On February 8, Gillard was sentenced to a term of five years and three months in prison. The sentence reflects the gravity of his crimes and the impact on his victims. This case underscores the importance of persistent investigation and the bravery of victims who come forward to seek justice, even many years after the abuse occurred. Gillard’s conviction marks a significant step in addressing historical child abuse cases and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to protect vulnerable children from predators.