RICHARD GASH BROCKLEY PERVERTED COLLEGE LECTURER SENTENCED TO JAIL

In December 2000, a disturbing case unfolded at the Old Bailey involving Richard Gash, a 35-year-old college lecturer from Darefield Road, Brockley, who was convicted of heinous acts of child abuse. Gash, who had a troubling criminal history including previous convictions for assault, faced justice after a series of allegations revealed his involvement in molesting a five-year-old girl while her mother was nearby in their home.

According to court proceedings, the young girl confided in her aunt during 1999 about the abuse she endured. This disclosure led to Gash's arrest and subsequent trial. During the hearing, Judge Allan Hitching detailed the circumstances of the crime, describing how Gash's misconduct occurred while the child's mother was preparing dinner. The judge stated, “What you did was put your hand down inside that child's underwear and touched her private parts. It was a momentary activity.”

Throughout the trial, Gash maintained his innocence, denying the allegations. Despite his protests, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him. Gash's criminal record was also highlighted, with the judge noting, “As far as your background is concerned, you are somebody with a considerable number of previous convictions. I do not regard them as relevant,” emphasizing that Gash possessed the intellectual capacity to lead a different life.

In a shocking display of remorse or perhaps despair, Gash told the court, “My life has been destroyed. As far as I am concerned, a sentence of death is the kind of sentence I would gladly accept in these circumstances.” His words underscored the profound impact the conviction had on him.

The court also heard about Gash’s brief romantic involvement with the girl’s mother, which began after they met on a train in 1999. During this period, Gash reportedly gained the girl’s affection, further complicating the case. Gash commented on the victim, stating, “The alleged victim seems to be unaware of anything in terms of stress or trauma. I wish her well.”

Gash explained that he had attempted to turn his life around after serving a two-year sentence for assault, claiming he had decided to “rehabilitate” himself. He stated, “From that time on, the way forward would be to denounce violence in any way shape or form. I got myself a girlfriend. I would call myself a reformed character.”

Ultimately, the court sentenced Gash to 15 months in prison and ordered him to register as a sex offender for ten years, marking a significant step in the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children from predators like him. The case remains a stark reminder of the dangers lurking within seemingly ordinary communities, such as Brockley, and the importance of vigilance and justice in safeguarding the innocence of children.