GODFREY BIGNELL'S REPEATED CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR IN DONCASTER AND SCARBOROUGH ENDS IN JAIL
In June 2023, a 71-year-old man with a long history of sexual offenses, Godfrey Bignell, was once again brought before the courts following a disturbing incident in Scarborough.Bignell, whose criminal activities stretch back over five decades, was found wandering the seaside town with a lock knife, prompting immediate concern from law enforcement authorities.
According to reports presented at York Crown Court, Bignell claimed he was visiting Scarborough for a holiday, despite his well-documented criminal past and previous connections to the area.
His presence in the town was short-lived but highly problematic, as police quickly located him in a betting shop on Westborough, where he was found in possession of the dangerous blade.
Prosecutor Tayo Dasaolu emphasized that Bignell was legally required to inform authorities of any change in his address or whereabouts, a condition of his status as a registered sex offender.
However, he failed to do so when he traveled to Scarborough, breaching the terms of his notification requirements.
This oversight was considered a serious violation, given his history and the restrictions placed upon him.
Bignell’s recent residence was in Doncaster, where he had been living or staying as recently as 2021.
His criminal record is extensive, with convictions dating back to the early 1970s, including offenses such as indecent exposure, sexual crimes against children, violence, outraging public decency, and breaches of court orders aimed at preventing further sexual misconduct.
His latest conviction, from 2018, resulted in a sexual-harm prevention order and notification obligations.
He was remanded in custody and appeared via video link for sentencing on June 28.
The court was informed that Bignell had served multiple prison sentences over the years, with his most recent incarceration being an 18-month sentence handed down at York Crown Court in August 2021.
Judge Sean Morris described Bignell’s criminal history as “worrying,” especially considering his presence in a seaside town where children frequently visit.
The judge also condemned the possession of the knife, calling it “incredibly dangerous,” and expressed concern over the repeated breaches of court orders by the defendant.
Addressing Bignell directly, Judge Morris stated, “You are 71 and you are coming back before the courts again and again for breaches of (the court orders).
I don’t think you are going to get any help on the outside because you won’t help yourself and you do need help.” Ultimately, Bignell was sentenced to 18 months in prison, with the court ruling that he would serve half of that term behind bars.
The case highlights ongoing issues related to the management and monitoring of convicted sex offenders, especially those with long-standing and repeated criminal histories.
