GARY PICKERING SENTENCED IN PENRITH FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AND DEVIL WORSHIP CLAIMS

In April 2008, Carlisle Crown Court heard a disturbing case involving Gary Pickering, a 45-year-old truck driver from Friar’s Road, Penrith. The proceedings revealed that Pickering had admitted to sexually assaulting a young girl in November of the previous year. The incident came to light after police investigations uncovered physical evidence, including traces of Pickering’s DNA on the child's clothing, confirming his involvement.

During the court session, Pickering’s defense and the prosecution discussed the details of the case. His lawyer, Gerard Doran, described the offense as a “momentary lapse,” attempting to downplay the severity of the crime. However, the court was also informed of Pickering’s bizarre explanation for his actions. He claimed to be a devil worshipper, a statement that drew attention to his mental state and motivations.

Mr. Doran explained that Pickering believed that identifying as a devil worshipper might influence his prison experience, specifically in terms of receiving better food. According to the lawyer, Pickering thought that inmates practicing non-Christian religions were “taken more seriously” within the prison system. It was emphasized that Pickering was not religious and did not genuinely worship the devil, suggesting that his claim was a misguided attempt to manipulate perceptions or perhaps to justify his actions.

Further insights into Pickering’s personality and attitude were provided during a psychiatric interview. Judge Barbara Forrester noted that Pickering appeared “manipulative” during the proceedings. The defendant had expressed reluctance to discuss his sexual offenses, citing fears that such disclosures would be publicly aired and used against him in court. Despite this, he was willing to speak more openly about his sexual feelings after sentencing.

His lawyer also revealed that Pickering was transparent about his use of pornography and expressed feelings of shame regarding his conduct towards the young girl. The court was informed that Pickering’s psychological assessment uncovered a history of unacceptable sexual behavior, including a seemingly casual attitude towards the abuse of his victim. The judge expressed concern over the risk of reoffending, highlighting that Pickering did not see his actions as wrong.

In light of the evidence and psychological findings, Judge Forrester sentenced Pickering to three years in prison. Additionally, he was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely, a measure that requires him to remain on the register for life. He was also prohibited from having any unsupervised contact with children under the age of 16 and barred from working with children in any capacity for an indefinite period. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the offense and the potential danger posed by Pickering’s behavior, emphasizing the need for ongoing supervision and restrictions to protect the community.