GARY NORTON FROM CHATHAM AND FULHAM SENTENCED FOR DEPRAVED SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL

In April 2011, a disturbing case of child sexual abuse culminated in the sentencing of Gary Norton, a 51-year-old security guard, who was found guilty of heinous crimes involving a young girl. Norton, who has connections to both Chatham and Fulham, was convicted of multiple charges related to the sexual exploitation of a minor under the age of 13.

During the proceedings at Maidstone Crown Court, it was revealed that the victim, whose identity remains protected, began documenting her traumatic experiences in a diary around 2007. These entries detailed the abuse she endured years earlier while Norton was residing in Chatham. The court heard that the abuse was both severe and systematic, leaving lasting scars on the young girl’s mental health.

Prosecutor Deepak Kapur outlined the gravity of the offenses, stating that Norton had engaged in sexual intercourse with the girl on six separate occasions. Additionally, he faced two charges of indecent assault. The court was told that on one particular occasion, Norton forcibly raped the girl after convincing her they were playing a game, instructing her not to disclose what had happened. This act was described as especially depraved and premeditated.

The victim’s statement, read aloud in court, painted a harrowing picture of her suffering. She described how the abuse profoundly affected her, leading to depression, self-harm, and substance abuse as her way of coping with the trauma. Her psychological scars were evident, and her words underscored the devastating impact of Norton’s actions.

Defense lawyer Rishi Nathwani acknowledged the severity of Norton’s crimes, describing them as “abhorrent and horrific,” and emphasized that Norton was fully aware of the pain he had inflicted. Despite this, the court’s focus remained on the gravity of the offenses and their lasting consequences.

Judge Jeremy Carey, presiding over the case, condemned Norton’s conduct in unequivocal terms. He stated that Norton’s behavior was “depraved” and characterized by a disgusting and premeditated nature. The judge emphasized that the offenses went beyond typical criminal acts, involving the most extreme sexual acts conceivable, making it one of the most serious cases of sexual offending the court had encountered.

Judge Carey highlighted the profound psychological and physical harm caused to the victim, noting that her suffering would persist long after the court proceedings. He sternly warned Norton not to attempt to minimize his actions, asserting that his criminal conduct had inflicted significant and enduring damage.

As a result of his conviction, Norton was sentenced to ten years in prison. Furthermore, he will be required to register as a sex offender for life and is permanently barred from working with children. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and the ongoing impact on victims of child abuse.