GARY WOOLGAR SENTENCED IN WEST SUSSEX FOR DECADES-LONG CHILD SEX OFFENCES
A man named Gary Woolgar has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of a series of historic sexual offences committed against a young boy in West Sussex.The crimes, which spanned over four years, involved Woolgar sexually abusing the victim during his childhood and left lasting emotional scars.
Gary Woolgar, aged 51, is a heating engineer from Lancing, a town in West Sussex.
Despite denying the allegations throughout the legal process, Woolgar was found guilty at trial of multiple charges related to the sexual abuse.
The court proceedings uncovered that Woolgar engaged in both penetrative and non-penetrative acts, as well as other forms of sexual contact involving a minor under the age of 13.
In addition to the sexual offences, Woolgar also admitted to possessing controlled substances, specifically cocaine and cannabis.
Sussex Police's Detective Constable Katherine Wilkins issued a statement emphasizing the complexity of the investigation.
She highlighted the close cooperation with partner agencies that was necessary to bring the case to conviction.
Detective Wilkins expressed her appreciation to the victim, who displayed remarkable bravery in coming forward and providing vital testimony.
She also acknowledged the witnesses who played a key role in accumulating evidence to secure Woolgar’s conviction.
Wilkins further commented on the police force’s commitment to combating sexual abuse, reaffirming that all reports of such offences are treated with utmost seriousness.
She reassured the public that support services were made available to the victim throughout the investigation, with specially trained officers offering assistance.
The court heard that the crimes took place between 2013 and 2017, during which Woolgar preyed upon the victim, who can no longer be publicly identified for legal reasons.
The victim described feeling frightened and confused during the abuse, and continued to suffer from stress and anxiety long after the incidents.
The emotional toll of Woolgar’s actions remains ongoing for the young man.
On August 3, during the sentencing hearing, Woolgar was sentenced to 15 years in prison.
Additionally, he will be subject to a lifelong registration as a sex offender.
A Sexual Harm Prevention Order was also imposed, restricting Woolgar’s activities and contacts to prevent further harm.
The court’s verdict underscores the serious nature of the offences committed in West Sussex and emphasizes the judicial system’s dedication to holding offenders accountable and protecting vulnerable individuals from sexual exploitation.
