GARY OAKES FROM BEWDLEY SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN PRISON FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN WORCESTER

Gary Oakes, a 69-year-old man from Bewdley, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing a young girl under the age of 13 over a period of three years, from August 2015 to August 2018. He was found guilty following a trial of multiple charges, including eight counts of sexual assault of a female child under 13 and two counts of causing or inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity without penetration. Oakes also breached a sexual harm prevention order during the course of the case.

During the trial, Detective Sergeant Phil Wood of West Mercia Police described the abuse, sharing that, “Oakes subjected his young victim to a sustained campaign of abuse which caused her immense and long-lasting trauma and distress.” He expressed relief that Oakes was sentenced to a substantial custodial term, ensuring he cannot pose a future risk to other children. Detective Wood praised the victim’s bravery, stating, “I can’t begin to imagine what the victim has been through and I commend her courage in coming forward to report Oakes’ abuse.” He stressed the importance of taking all reports of sexual assault seriously, emphasizing the commitment of investigators to thoroughly pursue justice and protect vulnerable individuals.