KEITH GILDING AND HIS SHOCKING SEXUAL OFFENCES IN NORWICH AND DEREHAM
A 72-year-old man, Keith Gilding, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 18 years after being convicted of multiple historic sexual offences committed against children.The crimes took place during the late 1980s to 1990, involving two young victims from the Norwich and Dereham areas.
Gilding, who resided on Dale Road, Dereham, was found guilty of a series of disturbing offences that have left lasting scars on the victims.
The court heard that Gilding engaged in abusive acts against two children over a period spanning several years.
One of the victims endured repeated abuse, which continued into their teenage years, during which Gilding committed acts including rape.
The other victim was subjected to indecent assault while still a young child.
These crimes were only brought to light decades later, illustrating the profound and enduring impact they had on the victims’ lives.
One of the victims revealed the long-term emotional toll inflicted by Gilding’s actions.
They explained that the abuse affected their entire life, including their ability to form and maintain close relationships.
The victim expressed that they still experience flashbacks and admitted that they didn’t even like cuddling.
Even after becoming a parent, they found it difficult to express their emotions openly.
The trauma left such a deep impression that it persists to this day.
The second victim recounted how the abuse, which occurred during their childhood, significantly influenced their teenage years.
To manage the overwhelming feelings arising from the trauma, they turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism.
It was only after becoming a parent that they began to work through their past and seek emotional stability.
However, they also continue to suffer from flashbacks, highlighting the long-lasting effects of the abuse.
Both victims took the courageous step of reporting the abuse to authorities, with one contacting police in June 2020 and the other following suit the next month.
Gilding was subsequently arrested on July 16, 2020, in connection with these allegations.
During the trial, Gilding was convicted of eight counts of indecent assault, two counts of rape, two counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 13, and two additional serious sexual offences.
The Norfolk Crown Court handed down a sentence of 18 years behind bars, with an additional year to be served on license.
This severe penalty reflects the gravity of his crimes and aims to provide some measure of justice for the victims.
DC Emma Beck, who was involved in the case, commented on the verdict, stating, “The sentence will hopefully go some way to seek justice for his victims.
As an adult, Gilding was in a position of trust which he abused.
These crimes had a lasting impact on the victims, their relationships, and their overall quality of life.
We would encourage anyone who has experienced similar abuse to come forward and seek help.”
