GARY THOROGOOD FROM NEWTON AYCLIFFE JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST UNDERAGE GIRL IN DURHAM

In a case that has shocked the community of Newton Aycliffe, Gary Thorogood, aged 53, was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of engaging in inappropriate and sexually motivated conduct towards a young girl. The incident took place in Durham, where Thorogood’s actions led to a serious criminal conviction that highlights the dangers of grooming and exploitation.

According to court proceedings, Thorogood initially communicated with the underage girl through a series of messages that contained suggestive and inappropriate language. Prosecutors revealed that prior to the assault, Thorogood had used language that implied a desire to be close to her, including suggestions that they could “snuggle up” and references to her being his “girlfriend.” He also asked her for a “snog,” which is a slang term for a kiss, despite knowing that such interactions were unlawful given her age. The messages, which Thorogood was aware he should not have sent, were later asked to be deleted by him, indicating an awareness of the inappropriateness of his conduct.

During the court hearing, Shaun Dodds, the prosecutor, detailed how the girl initially thought Thorogood’s messages were “jokes,” but upon reflection, she recognized that he was exploiting her vulnerability. The court heard that her trust in adults was severely damaged by his actions, leading her to be taught exclusively by female teachers afterward. She also reported that her academic performance suffered, and she experienced difficulties during subsequent examinations, which she attributed to the emotional impact of the incident.

The case took a significant turn when Thorogood was initially denying the charges, which included a single count of sexual activity with a child dating back to 2015. He appeared at a plea hearing in June but later changed his plea to guilty when the case was called for trial last month. The court was informed that the victim was prepared to give evidence, but Thorogood’s change of plea resulted in a conviction without the need for a full trial.

In mitigation, Martin Towers, representing Thorogood, explained that the defendant, who resides at Tanfield Place in Newton Aycliffe, has been suffering from serious health issues since his admission of guilt. He revealed that Thorogood had undergone a triple heart bypass following a heart attack and had spent three weeks hospitalized. Towers also noted that since the conviction, Thorogood had been ostracized by members of the community who were aware of his actions.

Judge Simon Hickey sentenced Thorogood to 13 months in prison. The judge emphasized the element of grooming involved in the case and pointed out the significant age disparity between the offender and the victim as an aggravating factor. Additionally, Thorogood was placed under an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years, reflecting the seriousness of his misconduct and the court’s commitment to public safety.