OLIVER SANDIFORDSMITH SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN FARNWORTH AND LEIGH

In a case that has shocked the local community, Oliver Sandifordsmith, a 28-year-old motocross enthusiast and instructor, was found guilty of sexually assaulting a four-year-old girl and subsequently sentenced to four and a half years in prison. The incident took place in June 2014 at Sandifordsmith’s residence on Martin Avenue, where the young girl was visiting with her parents and his next-door neighbor.

Sandifordsmith, who had been released from custody in November 2018 and was residing back in Farnworth, has been a familiar figure in the local motocross scene. He operates a motocross school at Leisure Lakes MX track in Southport and also at Astley Raceway in Leigh, Lancashire. Despite his involvement in the sport, his recent conviction has cast a shadow over his reputation.

The court proceedings revealed disturbing details of the assault. Prosecutors stated that the girl was at Sandifordsmith’s home when the incident occurred. DNA evidence, including saliva found in the girl’s knickers, was presented to support the case. The DNA analysis was crucial in establishing the connection, as it was sent away for testing.

During the trial, Judge Timothy Clayson described the circumstances surrounding the assault. The defendant claimed that he was showing the girl’s father and his neighbor his motocross bikes in his garage at the time. He attempted to justify his actions by saying he put his dog’s ball in his mouth to prevent the dog from jumping up. However, the court found this explanation unconvincing.

The court heard that after the garage visit, Sandifordsmith went upstairs to retrieve teddy bears intended for the girl’s mother to give to her daughter. It was at this point that the young girl followed him upstairs, and the assault took place. Judge Clayson emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating that it was extremely wrong and that Sandifordsmith’s defense had only increased the distress experienced by the victim’s family.

Furthermore, the judge highlighted the breach of trust involved, noting that the girl would have felt comfortable around Sandifordsmith due to the friendship between his family and hers. The defendant’s false allegations against the girl’s mother added to the trauma faced by the family. As the sentence was announced, a female family member in the public gallery was seen crying and screaming “no no no” in distress.

As Sandifordsmith was led from the courtroom, he expressed his love to his family, a moment that contrasted sharply with the seriousness of his conviction. The court ordered him to serve half of his sentence in custody, with the remaining half on license. Additionally, he was mandated to register as a sex offender for life, reflecting the severity of his crime.

Despite his involvement in motocross, Sandifordsmith’s actions have overshadowed his sporting pursuits, and his case remains a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding trust and safety within the community of Farnworth and beyond.