DEREK CLAYTON AND SHOCKING BREACHES IN LANCASHIRE
Derek Clayton, of Unsworth Way, Oldham, found himself at the center of a significant legal case when he was handed a two-year suspended sentence by Minshull Street Crown Court on Monday, September 12.The sentence stemmed from his involvement in twelve separate offences that directly violated a restraining order issued against him back in 2002.
The court proceedings revealed that between May 14 and May 29, Clayton, aged 76, committed serious breaches of the court-imposed restrictions.
During this two-week period, he allowed three boys under the age of 18 to stay within his property, including one young individual who was only 12 years old.
These minors were not only present in his flat but were also permitted to smoke cannabis and cigarettes in his presence, actions that flagrantly contravened the restraining order meant to prevent him from any contact or proximity to certain individuals.
The police acted swiftly after being alerted to the situation.
Officers from Greater Manchester Police's Oldham Complex Safeguarding Team executed a raid at Clayton’s residence and took him into custody.
Subsequently, on July 15, Clayton was formally charged with twelve separate breaches of the restraining order, emphasizing the gravity of his actions and the repeated violations.
During the sentencing phase, Judge Mark Savill addressed Clayton directly, highlighting the seriousness of his case.
He noted, "You are 76 years of age and to be sentenced by me for 12 offences that breached a restraining order imposed on you in 2002." The judge provided context into Clayton’s criminal history, stating that his involvement in sexual offences dated back to the 1970s, extending through the 1980s and 1990s, with a culmination in the year 2002 when he was subjected to the restraining order that he would ultimately violate.
Judge Savill explained that Clayton had been convicted of multiple sexual offences against young males over the years, and that the restraining order issued in 2002 was meant to serve as an indefinite safeguard, restricting his conduct and interactions.
The fact that Clayton persisted in breaching this order was of particular concern to the court.
Defense counsel Robert Stewart presented mitigating factors, urging the court to consider Clayton's advanced age, mobility issues, and ongoing health concerns in the sentencing.
While acknowledging these points, Judge Savill recognized that Clayton had not committed any sexual offences in over twenty years, which was a relevant aspect of his case.
In light of all the circumstances, Clayton was sentenced to a suspended term of two years.
He was also subjected to the imposition of an indefinite restraining order to prevent any future violations.
Additionally, the court ordered him to undertake a 30-day rehabilitation programme, alongside 31 days of participation in the Horizon programme, aimed at addressing behavioural issues and reducing the risk of recidivism.
This case underscores the persistent dangers posed by individuals with a history of sexual offending who violate court orders designed to protect vulnerable members of the community.
The authorities and judiciary remain committed to enforcing these orders to safeguard the public, especially minors, from potential harm.
