GARY THOMPSON OF HALIFAX SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR HORRIFIC RAPE AND CRUELTY AGAINST YOUNG GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Halifax, a man named Gary Thompson was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 18 years after being found guilty of a series of heinous crimes committed against a young girl over three decades ago. The sentencing took place at Bradford Crown Court, where the court heard harrowing details of the abuse that spanned several years and left a lasting impact on the victim's life.

Judge Jonathan Durham Hall QC, presiding over the case, emphasized the importance of victims having the courage to come forward and speak out against their abusers. He stated that the legal system, including the police, courts, and jury, would stand firm in delivering justice when victims are brave enough to testify. The case was particularly notable for the severity and brutality of the offenses committed by Thompson, who was described by his own legal counsel as a “model father” in his personal life, a stark contrast to his criminal actions from more than 30 years ago.

Gary Thompson, aged 58 and residing on Woodlands Mount in Halifax, was convicted on multiple charges, including rape, indecent assault, attempted buggery, and cruelty towards the victim, who cannot be publicly identified due to legal restrictions. The jury found him guilty after a detailed trial, during which the victim’s personal statement was read aloud. The woman, now an adult, described how Thompson’s abuse had “ruined her life,” leading to mental health struggles, breakdowns, and ongoing difficulties. She expressed relief that she had finally been able to give evidence, hoping that this step would allow her to begin healing.

Prosecutor Nicholas Askins highlighted the emotional toll of the case, noting that the victim’s testimony revealed the extent of the trauma inflicted upon her. Despite the long passage of time, the court was told that Thompson’s offending had ceased when he was in his mid-twenties. His defense attorney, Gillian Batts, pointed out that there had been no suspicion or allegations against Thompson since then, suggesting that he had not engaged in similar behavior in recent years.

Throughout the proceedings, Thompson, who suffers from a degenerative spinal condition, remained seated in the courtroom as Judge Durham Hall detailed the horrific nature of the crimes. The judge described the abuse as relentless and terrifying, stating that he had rarely encountered a case as distressing. The judge recounted that Thompson’s campaign of abuse involved repeated rapes, some so severe that the victim would vomit. The cruelty extended to disturbing acts such as forcing her to eat her own vomit and using socks to silence her screams.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Durham Hall condemned Thompson’s actions as “true evil,” emphasizing the profound harm caused. Thompson, who had denied all charges, was sentenced to 18 years in prison. Upon release, he will be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.