CORNELIUS INGMIRE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN LYDNEY AND NEWENT

In June 2016, a disturbing case of prolonged sexual abuse came to light involving Cornelius Ingmire, a 68-year-old resident of Goode Court in Lydney, Forest of Dean. Over a span of nearly seven years, Ingmire engaged in repeated acts of sexual misconduct against two young girls, starting from when they were just eight years old. The gravity of his offenses was acknowledged in court as he pleaded guilty to a total of 14 counts related to the abuse of both victims, with incidents dating from October 2007 through May 2014.

His Honour Judge Michael Cullum presided over the case at Gloucester Crown Court, where the court heard harrowing details of how Ingmire systematically groomed the children, gradually desensitizing them to his inappropriate behavior and convincing them to accept it as normal. The judge highlighted the disturbing pattern of behavior, noting that Ingmire moved from one girl to the other, exploiting their innocence and trust.

During the proceedings, the judge expressed profound condemnation of Ingmire’s actions, stating, “Since 2007 you kept a significant secret and you stole the innocence from your two victims. They will be affected by what you repeatedly did to them for the rest of their lives.” The emotional toll on the victims was emphasized, with the court acknowledging that the psychological scars inflicted by Ingmire’s actions are deep and enduring.

Prosecuting barrister Ian Fenney provided further insight into the case, revealing that the first victim confided in someone on Christmas Eve about the abuse but was sworn to secrecy. The victim kept this secret for approximately three years until the second victim began to speak out, eventually reaching out to Childline. The second girl disclosed her experiences to her older sister, which ultimately led to police involvement. Ingmire was arrested in May 2015 following these disclosures.

The court recognized the severity and prolonged nature of the abuse, describing it as a “prolonged course of inappropriate sexual behavior with young children.” The psychological impact on the victims was described as significant, with some victims finding it too painful to relive their experiences in victim impact statements. The court acknowledged the profound and lasting effects of Ingmire’s actions on the victims’ lives.

In response to the case, Judge Cullum imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect indefinitely. Additionally, Ingmire was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.