GERALD GARRETT FROM GLOUCESTER AND LEOMINSTER JAILED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN WORCESTER

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities, Gerald Garrett, a 71-year-old man with ties to Gloucester and Leominster, was convicted of heinous sexual offenses against a young girl. The charges stemmed from allegations of indecent assault committed over a period when the victim was between 11 and 14 years old, a dark secret that Garrett had kept hidden for years.

Garrett, who resided at Moor Meadow, Shobdon, Leominster, vehemently denied the seven charges brought against him during his appearance at Worcester Crown Court in November 2013. Throughout the trial, he dismissed the accusations as “rubbish” and insisted that they had been fabricated, attempting to deny any involvement in the abuse. However, the evidence presented painted a different picture, revealing the extent of his alleged misconduct.

During the proceedings, the emotional toll on those involved was palpable. Two female jurors were visibly overwhelmed and broke down in tears as they listened to the detailed account of the abuse from the young girl, whose testimony was both harrowing and heartbreaking. Childhood friends of the victim also provided evidence, corroborating her account and adding weight to the case against Garrett.

Following a three-day trial, the jury reached a verdict by majority, with a 10-2 decision finding Garrett guilty of the charges. The conviction marked a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the young victim and highlighted the importance of listening to survivors of abuse.

Gerald Garrett’s background was also discussed during the trial. He had joined the Royal Marine Commandos in the late 1950s at the age of 17, serving his country before transitioning into civilian life. After leaving the military, Garrett worked in various roles, including on motorways, at building sites, and as a driver of heavy goods vehicles. His life took him to different parts of the Worcester area, including Droitwich, Wychbold, and Worcester itself, where he fathered four children.

Later in life, Garrett moved to Gloucester, where he became the landlord of The Pelican Inn, a pub located just a short walk from the historic Gloucester Cathedral. His health declined after suffering two strokes in 2003, which left him with mobility issues. Despite these health challenges, his criminal actions had already caused irreparable harm to his young victim.

In December 2013, Garrett was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court to serve six years in prison for his crimes. The sentence reflects the severity of his offenses and the ongoing efforts of the justice system to protect vulnerable children from predators like him.