PATRICK COSTELLO FROM WOODVILLE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRLS IN DERBYSHIRE

In May 2022, a disturbing case involving a pensioner from Derbyshire has culminated in a significant prison sentence, highlighting the severity of his crimes against vulnerable minors. Patrick Costello, a 68-year-old resident of Sun Street in Woodville, was brought before Derby Crown Court to face serious allegations related to the sexual abuse of three young girls, with the youngest victim being only 11 years old at the time of the offences.

Costello was charged with a total of 13 offences, although he denied 10 of these accusations. The court proceedings revealed that he was compelled to give evidence and relive the traumatic experiences, which added to the distress of the victims. After a thorough trial, a jury found him guilty of all ten charges he faced, which included multiple counts of gross indecency with a girl under the age of 16, engaging in sexual activity with a child aged between 13 and 17, and voyeurism.

The court heard harrowing details of Costello’s repeated acts of gross indecency, which he committed while the victims were asleep, involving two young girls. These acts demonstrated a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior. Additionally, it was revealed that he had filmed one of the girls while she was showering and had watched her change clothes in her bedroom, further violating her privacy and trust.

His voyeuristic tendencies did not cease with the minors; the court was informed that Costello continued his voyeurism when one of the girls reached adulthood. He was caught watching her in the shower, indicating a persistent and obsessive pattern of behavior.

Prior to the trial, Costello had admitted to possessing indecent images of a child, as well as one count of voyeurism and possession of extreme animal pornography. These admissions underscored the extent of his disturbing interests and illegal activities.

On 18 May, Derby Crown Court sentenced Patrick Costello to five years in prison for his crimes. The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, aimed at preventing any future offending, and a notification requirement that will be in effect once he completes his custodial sentence. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and protective measures against individuals who pose a danger to children and vulnerable persons in communities such as Woodville and across Derbyshire.