DAVID GARDNER SENTENCED TO 11 YEARS IN PRISON IN SKELMERSDALE FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE
A 65-year-old pensioner from Alderley, Skelmersdale, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after sexually abusing a boy and girl over a decade.David Gardner was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a child and of causing and inciting sexual activity with a child for incidents that occurred between 2000 and 2010.
He had previously pleaded guilty to possessing indecent images of children.
The sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court on July 2.
Police investigators have since revealed more disturbing details about the case.
A force spokesperson stated, "Gardner made one of his victims watch videos of older men raping children.
Although the victims were too young to fully comprehend what was happening, one of them questioned Gardner about his actions.
He simply responded that it was all just fun." During his arrest, officers seized Gardner's electronic devices, discovering thousands of indecent images of children as well as extreme pornography.
DC Dawn Croucher from West Lancs CID commented, "First and foremost, I want to praise the victims for their bravery in coming forward and disclosing these horrendous offences.
Gardner is a despicable individual who abused children to satisfy his perverted interests.
While no sentence can truly reflect the damage caused, I am pleased that Gardner will now spend a significant amount of time behind bars." She also urged anyone who has been a victim of sexual offenses, regardless of how long ago, to contact Lancashire Police, emphasizing that victims will be heard and that officers will do everything possible to bring perpetrators to justice.
