RICHARD BARLOW'S HORRIFIC CRIME AT DERBYSHIRE FESTIVAL SHOCKS MANSFIELD AND PENTRICH
In April 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving Richard Barlow, a music teacher from Mansfield, who committed heinous acts at a well-known Derbyshire music festival.The incident took place at the Rock and Blues Festival held at the Coney Grey Showground in Pentrich, near Belper, where Barlow engaged in a series of criminal activities that have left a lasting impact on his victims and the community alike.
According to court reports, Barlow, aged 39 at the time, was responsible for administering drugs to two underage girls before subjecting them to sexual assault inside a tent at the festival.
The severity of his actions was compounded by the discovery of indecent images of children on his electronic devices, which further underscored the depravity of his conduct.
The court heard harrowing details of the assault, with one of the victims experiencing profound emotional distress, including suicidal thoughts, depression, and anxiety.
The other girl was described as someone who constantly re-lives the traumatic experience, indicating the deep psychological scars inflicted by Barlow’s actions.
Prior to his arrest, Richard Barlow was known to run Instru-Tech Ltd, a business based in Mansfield.
His criminal activities, however, led to his downfall and subsequent prosecution.
The case was brought before Nottingham Crown Court, where the judge, Recorder Michael Auty QC, delivered a stern sentence.
During the sentencing, Recorder Auty described the gravity of Barlow’s misconduct, stating, “It seems that they did not take much of the cocaine.
It had an immediate impact, particularly on one girl, who was unfamiliar with the drug and how to take it.
It certainly stupefied them for moments.
You undressed them both and penetrated the vagina of each of them.
I regard what you did as having elements of real wickedness to it.” The judge emphasized that Barlow’s decision to give the girls drugs was a calculated act, suggesting he had given it considerable thought.
He also highlighted the vulnerability of the victims, citing their young age as a factor that made them especially susceptible to Barlow’s predatory behavior.
Addressing the victims directly, Recorder Auty expressed hope for their future, saying, “I hope you are able to make something of the life that lies ahead of you.
You are two remarkable young women with bright futures and I wish you all the very best.” Although the exact date of the offenses was not disclosed, it was confirmed that Barlow, who was formerly residing in Mansfield but now has no fixed address, was sentenced to a total of 15 years in prison.
His sentence covers eight separate offenses related to sexual activity with minors and the possession of indecent images, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the community’s demand for justice.
