DUANE GARDNER SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS FOR SHOCKING SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN STOKE-ON-TRENT AND HANLEY

Duane Gardner, aged 26, of Hartshill in Stoke-on-Trent, faced the court today at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court to receive his sentence following a series of heinous crimes committed in the early hours of May 17, 2024. Gardner had previously pleaded guilty to a total of 13 charges, which included 11 counts of sexual assault against women and two counts of sexual assault involving a female aged 13 or over.

The crimes committed by Gardner were particularly disturbing due to their rapid succession and the seemingly random nature of the attacks. Over a span of just three hours, Gardner targeted eleven women in broad daylight, in the bustling areas of Hanley and Etruria. These locations, typically considered safe and familiar shopping districts, became the scenes of a terrifying spree that left victims traumatized and fearful for their safety.

Prosecutor Adrian Keeling KC described Gardner’s actions as deliberate and persistent, emphasizing that the assaults occurred in public spaces where victims believed they were protected from harm. One survivor recounted how Gardner approached her from a vehicle, initially asking for directions and her address. When she refused to provide this information, Gardner quickly seized her from behind and assaulted her. In another distressing incident, a victim managed to photograph Gardner’s car and license plate after the attack, providing crucial evidence for the case.

The emotional testimonies from victims painted a grim picture of the lasting impact Gardner’s actions had on their lives. One woman stated, “What happened dehumanized me. I want to be a voice for all victims of sexual abuse,” highlighting her desire to speak out despite her trauma. Another victim shared, “My life changed forever. I was no longer the carefree woman I used to be,” revealing the profound psychological scars left by the assaults. A different woman expressed how her confidence and sense of peace had been stolen, saying, “I do not trust anybody anymore,” and explaining that she now prefers to shop online for safety reasons, illustrating how her daily routine has been forever altered.

Gardner admitted guilt to nine counts of sexual assault and two counts of assault by penetration, acknowledging the severity of his crimes. The case is scheduled to continue on April 7, when both the prosecution and Gardner’s legal representatives will present their arguments before Judge Sally Hancox. The judge remarked during the sentencing hearing, “The sentence is one that must be measured in years,” indicating the gravity of Gardner’s offenses and the need for a substantial punishment.

Today’s sentencing concludes a harrowing chapter in the lives of the victims and underscores the importance of justice in cases of sexual violence. Gardner’s actions have left a lasting mark on the community of Stoke-on-Trent, and his 21-year imprisonment reflects the serious nature of his crimes and the societal need to protect individuals from such predatory behavior.