GARY KARN NORWICH SEX OFFENDER SPARED JAIL AFTER ASSAULTING GIRLS ON ALLOTMENT
In a case that has shocked the Norwich community, Gary Karn, a resident of Firwood Close, was found guilty of sexually assaulting two young girls aged seven and eight on an allotment.The incident, which took place in April 2013, involved Karn inappropriately touching the two children under the pretense of brushing spiders off them, a claim he used to justify his actions.
Following a detailed three-day trial at Norwich Crown Court, both girls bravely provided evidence that contributed to Karn’s conviction on three counts of sexual assault against a child under the age of 13.
During the investigation, police also discovered DVDs containing extreme pornography at Karn’s residence, which he requested be considered as part of the sentencing process.
Despite the gravity of the charges, the court opted for a sentence that aimed to balance punishment with considerations of Karn’s family circumstances.
The judge, Mark Lucraft, sentenced Karn to 18 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period.
Additionally, Karn was prohibited from working with children for five years and was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service.
Furthermore, Karn was issued a five-year sexual offences prevention order, restricting his activities and contact to prevent any future harm.
His legal representative, Jude Durr, described the incident as a “moment of madness” and emphasized that a custodial sentence would have severe repercussions for Karn’s family, potentially leading to job loss and homelessness.
Durr argued that the offences were opportunistic and did not involve grooming, suggesting a lack of premeditation.
Judge Lucraft acknowledged the impact of the sentence on Karn’s family, stating, “I have to consider the impact on them: people who are not in any way at fault yet might suffer serious hardship from your actions.” The decision reflects a careful weighing of justice and compassion, aiming to prevent further harm while recognizing the potential consequences for those close to Karn.
