ROSS GOODRUM FROM STANLEY SLASHED WITH SUSPENDED SENTENCE AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT NEAR DURHAM

In a disturbing series of events, Ross Goodrum, a 22-year-old resident of Stanley, found himself back in the spotlight following a serious sexual assault incident that occurred just weeks after he was released from court for a previous offense. The sequence of events highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding his behavior and the legal measures taken to address his actions.

On December 15 of the previous year, Goodrum was convicted of sexually assaulting a woman in her early 20s. Although he was handed a prison sentence of 52 weeks, the court decided to suspend this sentence for two years, allowing him to remain free under strict conditions. The court's decision was influenced by the fact that he had already spent over seven months in custody since his arrest for the latest offense, which was seen as a mitigating factor.

However, the peace was short-lived. On January 29, just a few weeks after his release, Goodrum was involved in a frightening incident that targeted a teenage girl. The girl, who was leaving a friend’s house at approximately 8:45 pm, encountered Goodrum in a context that raised serious concerns. Prosecutor Jane Foley explained that the girl had previously seen Goodrum at a bus station, where he had approached her multiple times, asking for the time. Despite her attempts to avoid him by going into a store toilet, Goodrum was waiting outside when she exited and followed her.

As she navigated through an underpass, Goodrum approached her again, this time asking for a light. While she was searching her bag, he seized her mobile phone and quickly entered his own number into it. The situation escalated as Goodrum then physically assaulted the girl, touching her sexually despite her repeated pleas for him to stop. He also kissed her, further traumatizing her. Fortunately, the girl managed to break free from his grasp and fled to where her friends were waiting, seeking safety.

The incident left the teenage girl deeply frightened, to the extent that she was now reluctant to go out alone. The police responded swiftly, and Goodrum was arrested shortly after the assault. During the investigation, he admitted to engaging in sexual activity with a minor, which compounded the severity of his actions.

In his defense, Ruth Phillips, representing Goodrum, argued that he had misjudged the girl’s age. She explained that Goodrum believed the girl to be older than she was, based on a brief interaction a few days prior, where he perceived her as friendly. Ms. Phillips stated that Goodrum had been drinking lager and smoking cannabis at the time, which may have impaired his judgment. She emphasized that he had misread the signals and did not intend harm.

Judge Richard Lowden, presiding over the case, acknowledged that Goodrum had already spent 206 days in custody. Recognizing the importance of rehabilitation, he ordered that Goodrum participate in a comprehensive sex offender treatment program. This program is considered the most appropriate course of action given the circumstances. The judge also imposed a three-year period of supervision, during which Goodrum will be monitored closely.

Furthermore, Goodrum is subject to a sexual offences prevention order, which restricts his contact with females under the age of 16. He is also required to sign the sex offenders’ register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and accountability. The court’s decision reflects a cautious approach aimed at protecting the community while providing an opportunity for Goodrum to address his issues through supervised treatment.