GILBERT GODDARD OF NORMANTON SENTENCED FOR PREDATORY PAEDOPHILE CRIMES IN DERBY

In December 2006, Gilbert Goddard, a 48-year-old resident of Upperdale Road in Normanton, was sentenced to an indeterminate prison term after being convicted of serious sexual offenses. The Crown Prosecution Service described him as a "dangerous and predatory paedophile," highlighting the severity of his crimes. On December 1st, Derby Crown Court found Goddard guilty of multiple charges, including rape and sexual assault, involving three girls all under the age of 16.

Prior to the trial, Goddard had admitted to one count of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, as well as another charge of sexual assault. Despite this admission, the court imposed a significant sentence, mandating that he serve a minimum of five years behind bars. Additionally, he was ordered to be registered on the sex offenders register for the rest of his life, reflecting the gravity of his offenses and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.

The allegations against Goddard involved three young girls, all under 16, who were targeted due to their emotional vulnerability. The CPS's Head of the Trials Unit in Derbyshire, Anna Zimand, issued a statement emphasizing the dangerous nature of Goddard’s actions. She explained that he deliberately chose victims who appeared emotionally fragile and lacked immediate family support, making them easier to manipulate.

Goddard’s method involved gaining their trust through flattery and creating an environment within his home in Normanton that many teenagers would find appealing. The environment was reportedly characterized by the provision of films, television, alcohol, tobacco, and a general absence of rules or discipline, all of which facilitated his predatory behavior. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable minors from exploitation by individuals like Goddard, whose actions have caused significant harm to the victims and their families.