GARY ‘THE GIMP’ THOMPSON SENTENCED IN ANTRIM FOR REPEATED SEXUAL ASSAULTS NEAR NORTHERN IRELAND

In a case that has shocked the community of Antrim, Northern Ireland, Gary ‘the Gimp’ Thompson has been convicted and sentenced for multiple serious sexual offenses committed against a young woman. The crimes, which spanned a period of distress and trauma for the victim, included assaults that took place in her own home, a hospital room, and other locations within Antrim.

Thompson, aged 42 and residing in Pinetree Grove, appeared before the Antrim Magistrates Court, which was sitting in Ballymena, to face the charges. The court heard that he was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault, each carrying a three-month sentence. These sentences are to be served consecutively, resulting in a total imprisonment term of nine months. District Judge Nigel Broderick, presiding over the case, expressed his firm stance on the severity of the offenses, stating, “I’m entirely satisfied in all the circumstances that the custody threshold is crossed.”

Judge Broderick emphasized the gravity of the case, noting that the offenses involved a vulnerable victim and were committed on three separate occasions. The court was told that Thompson had anticipated a prison sentence, as evidenced by him arriving at court with a large suitcase, which he carried into the dock.

Following the sentencing, Natalie Curry, who is engaged to David Thompson—convicted of murder—was present in the courtroom. She waved off Gary Thompson as he was led away. However, in a surprising turn, Judge Broderick released Thompson on bail pending an appeal against both his conviction and his sentence, allowing him to remain free temporarily.

The court proceedings revealed harrowing details of the assaults. During a three-hour hearing in January, the court heard how Thompson had physically and sexually assaulted the victim multiple times. On one occasion, he was described as wearing a pink swimsuit with his genitals hanging out, during which he groped her. The victim recounted that he had assaulted her again in her own kitchen and later in a hospital room while her mother was lying nearby, critically ill.

The victim testified that Thompson used both hands during the hospital assault and that she repeatedly told him to stop, even having to push him away. She described feeling disgusted, violated, and angry, especially because she had hoped to find safety and comfort during her mother’s final moments. She expressed her distress at having been subjected to such trauma again.

Thompson, however, denied the allegations, claiming that the evidence was fabricated due to family tensions. Despite his assertions, Judge Broderick found the evidence against him to be “credible and reliable,” highlighting the significant emotional trauma inflicted upon the victim. The court’s decision was based on the clear and consistent testimony that demonstrated the seriousness of the offenses.

In addition to the nine-month custodial sentence, Thompson was subjected to a five-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order, aimed at restricting his contact with potential victims and monitoring his behavior. Furthermore, a two-year restraining order was imposed, prohibiting him from approaching or contacting the victim directly or indirectly. The case underscores the ongoing concerns about safeguarding vulnerable individuals within the community of Antrim, Northern Ireland, and the importance of holding offenders accountable for their actions.