GARETH NEWMAN FROM POOLE SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES IN BOURNEMOUTH AND POLE

In a significant legal development at Bournemouth Crown Court, Gareth Newman, a 26-year-old man from Poole, was sentenced to serve a minimum of 18 months in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious sex offences. The court's decision came after a detailed trial and extensive evidence presented against Newman, who has a troubling history of violent sexual misconduct.

Judge James Meston QC, presiding over the case, described Newman as 'a significant risk' to all females, emphasizing the gravity of his actions and the danger he poses to the community. The court heard that Newman had engaged in a disturbing pattern of behaviour over two days in June of the previous year, during which he exposed himself to several women in the Poole area, specifically targeting the Rossmore district. The youngest victim was only 11 years old, highlighting the severity and disturbing nature of his offences.

Newman was convicted on three counts of indecent exposure and one count of performing a sex act in the presence of a child. These convictions followed a trial that concluded in December, during which Newman did not contest the charges. Additionally, Newman had previously pleaded guilty to failing to comply with the terms of the Sex Offenders Register by neglecting to inform police of his current address, a breach that further underscored his disregard for legal obligations.

The court also took into account Newman's past criminal record, which includes three convictions for indecent assaults in 1998, during which he used violence. These prior convictions contributed to the court's decision to impose a stringent sentence and to order Newman to be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life. Furthermore, he was disqualified from working with children, a measure aimed at protecting vulnerable members of the community.

Detective Constable Andrew Kennard provided insight into Newman's modus operandi, stating that he typically targeted young girls who were alone. He expressed gratitude to the victims and their families for their courage in coming forward and providing the evidence necessary to secure the convictions. DC Kennard emphasized that Newman committed his offences at various times of the day within the Rossmore area of Poole, often choosing young girls in their teens who were unaccompanied.

He underscored the importance of community safety and the police's commitment to addressing sexual crimes, stating, 'No one – whatever their age – deserves to be a victim of crime that involves someone making inappropriate remarks, intentionally exposing themselves, or touching another person in an improper way.'

Following the sentencing, the mother of a 13-year-old girl who was among the victims expressed her relief and concern. She described the profound impact the incident had on her daughter and their family, noting that her daughter, once an outgoing and social girl, had become more cautious and anxious since the event. The mother shared that her daughter now avoids walking alone, even during daylight hours, and suffers from panic attacks, which have significantly affected her daily life.

She concluded by stating her hope that the sentence reflects the seriousness of Newman's actions and expressed her gratitude towards the police for their efforts in securing justice. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by individuals like Newman and the importance of vigilant community and law enforcement efforts to protect vulnerable populations in Poole and beyond.