DAVID TOWNER FROM TWYNING SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING CHILDREN NEAR TEWKESBURY

In a serious case that has shocked the community of Twyning near Tewkesbury, David Towner, aged 23, was sentenced to a total of three years in prison on Monday after being found guilty of multiple sexual offences involving minors. The court heard disturbing details about Towner's actions, which included luring young girls into secluded areas under false pretenses and exploiting their innocence for his own gratification.

Judge Martin Picton delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of Towner's crimes. He remarked that Towner had narrowly avoided being declared a public danger, which could have resulted in an effective life sentence. The judge's comments underscored the serious nature of the offences and the potential threat posed by Towner's conduct.

The case was initiated after authorities uncovered evidence of Towner's misconduct. It was revealed that Towner, of Orchard Way, Twyning, near Tewkesbury, had enticed a 12-year-old girl to a makeshift tent set up in a remote field. There, he took indecent photographs of her while she was naked and committed an act of gross indecency. These actions were part of a series of offences that included exploiting the girl’s youth and trust.

Further investigations uncovered additional disturbing details involving a second girl, aged 15. Towner admitted to having sexual intercourse with her and taking indecent photographs. He also pleaded guilty to five other similar offences, which involved creating and possessing indecent images of children. During proceedings, Towner requested that a charge concerning the creation of 437 indecent images be taken into account, highlighting the extent of his offending.

In a subsequent hearing, Towner further admitted to engaging in sexual activity with another 15-year-old girl, adding to the list of his offences. The prosecution, led by Michael Longman, revealed that Towner was identified after a friend handed police a CD containing indecent images, which led to his arrest. During police interviews, Towner confessed to being sexually attracted to young girls and minors, confirming the disturbing nature of his predatory behaviour.

Defense lawyer Mike Forward acknowledged that Towner deserved a prison sentence, given the severity of his crimes. The court ultimately imposed an extended sentence, with Towner receiving three years of custody followed by a five-year licence period. Additionally, he was given a concurrent one-year sentence with a five-year extended licence for the other offences.

As part of the court's orders, Towner was mandated to register as a sex offender for life. The judge also prohibited him from using the internet except for purposes related to study or employment, aiming to prevent further offences. Authorities confiscated Towner’s camera, computer, and video cassettes as part of the sentencing process.

Judge Picton warned Towner that failure to cooperate with ongoing therapy or any reoffending could result in his immediate recall to custody during the extended licence period. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding children and the serious consequences faced by those who exploit their innocence.