CHESTERFIELD BUS DRIVER DANIEL REDFERN SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF SCHOOLGIRL
In March 2018, a disturbing case unfolded in Chesterfield involving Daniel Redfern, a 38-year-old bus driver whose actions have left a lasting scar on his victims.Redfern, residing on Church Walk in Chesterfield, was convicted of heinous crimes including one count of rape and four counts of sexual activity with a minor, following a trial at Derby Crown Court.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that Redfern exploited his position as a school bus driver to target vulnerable young girls.
He would often take them to secluded locations, where he committed his crimes.
One of these assaults occurred directly on a bus, highlighting the disturbing nature of his predatory behavior.
Judge Robert Egbuna, presiding over the case, condemned Redfern’s actions, emphasizing that he preyed on children who were particularly susceptible due to their backgrounds.
The judge pointed out that Redfern was aware of the vulnerabilities of his victims, especially noting that one girl, aged 14 at the time, came from a difficult background and was known to be obsessed with bus drivers.
Judge Egbuna stated, "You knew she...
needed someone to show her love.
You decided to abuse her.
You did not show him any mercy at all." He further criticized Redfern for his lack of empathy, asserting, "You did not show an ounce of love; you were concerned about self-gratification." In a poignant statement read aloud in court, the victim described the profound impact the assault had on her mental health.
She revealed that she has struggled with sleep, eating, and has experienced anxiety attacks since the incident.
Additionally, the court heard about another victim, a girl aged 15, whom Redfern met while she was in her school uniform.
This girl was described as vulnerable, with borderline learning disabilities.
The court was told that Redfern engaged in full sexual intercourse with her on at least two occasions—once in his car and another time in his home, where she was in the bed he shared with his wife.
The judge noted the emotional toll on this young girl, who finds it extremely difficult to recount her experiences and blames herself for what happened, despite being a victim.
Redfern’s crimes have led to a severe sentence: he will serve 16 years in prison and will be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring he remains under supervision to protect the community from further harm.
The case underscores the grave dangers posed by individuals abusing positions of trust and highlights the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from exploitation.
