PAUL BARTON FROM NORWICH JAILED FOR ATTEMPTED KIDNAPPING OF NINE-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN NORFOLK PARK
In a disturbing incident that has shocked the local community, Paul Barton, a 33-year-old man from Norwich, was sentenced to three years in prison after attempting to abduct a nine-year-old girl from a public park in Norwich, Norfolk.The incident, which took place on September 30, 2017, unfolded in broad daylight and has left residents deeply concerned about safety in the area.
According to court proceedings, Barton was living homeless at the time of the attack.
He was observed watching the young girl, who was in the park with her family, before making a move to seize her.
The court heard that Barton grabbed hold of the girl in what a judge described as “every parent’s nightmare,” an act that caused her to become visibly terrified.
Prosecutor Chris Youell detailed the harrowing sequence of events, stating that the girl attempted to fight off her attacker.
Despite her efforts, Barton held her wrist tightly and covered her mouth to prevent her from calling for help.
The court was told that Barton then pushed the girl to the ground, further escalating the danger she was in.
Fortunately, other park visitors, including a mother who was present with her child, became suspicious of Barton’s actions.
Their concern prompted them to observe the situation more closely.
Recognizing the potential danger, they intervened, which caused Barton to release the girl and flee the scene before the police arrived.
Following his escape, authorities quickly apprehended Barton.
He was subsequently charged and pleaded guilty to the kidnapping of a child.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Mark Dennis QC described the incident as a serious breach of public safety and emphasized the gravity of Barton’s actions.
In addition to the three-year prison sentence, Barton was handed a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting his contact with minors and imposing strict conditions aimed at preventing any future offenses.
The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in public spaces and the ongoing need for protective measures for children in Norwich and beyond.
