STEVE GARDNER FROM TROWBRIDGE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON SCHOOLBOY AT LOCAL PARTY

In October 2020, a disturbing case unfolded involving Steven Gardner, a man from Trowbridge, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old boy during a social gathering in the town. Gardner, aged 43, faced serious charges after his actions at a party in Trowbridge last year came to light, leading to a lengthy legal process and a significant prison sentence.

The incident took place in 2019, during a party attended by the young victim and his mother. According to court proceedings, the event was winding down when Gardner, who had been present at the gathering, approached the boy in the kitchen area. He offered the young teenager a cigarette and some cider, which the boy pretended to drink, possibly to avoid further confrontation or suspicion.

Later, back in the main living room of the house, Gardner made an inappropriate move by attempting to kiss and cuddle the boy. Prosecutor Ian Fenny described how Gardner then took advantage of the situation by exposing himself to the child. The young victim, showing quick thinking and bravery, managed to bend Gardner’s finger back and break free from his grasp. Seizing the moment, the boy claimed he needed to use the bathroom, which allowed him to alert the party’s hostess about what had transpired.

Following the incident, Gardner was asked to leave the premises. He was found outside the front door when police arrived at the scene. During police interviews, Gardner denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence despite the evidence against him.

The court heard from two victim statements, which the judge described as courageous. The boy expressed a mixture of sadness and relief, stating that he was glad the incident happened to him rather than a younger child who might not have known how to respond. His mother also provided a statement, revealing her anxiety throughout the investigation and trial process. She expressed pride in her son’s bravery, saying, “I’m so proud of my son. He has been so brave throughout.”

Gardner, who resides in Summerleaze, Trowbridge, admitted to the sexual assault charge. In sentencing, Judge Peter Crabtree sentenced him to three years and nine months in prison. The judge also imposed a lifetime restraining order, forbidding Gardner from contacting the victim or his mother. Additionally, a sexual harm prevention order was issued, restricting him from having unsupervised contact with anyone under 16 unless their parents are aware of his conviction. Gardner is also required to sign the sex offenders’ register for life. The court ordered the attempted rape charge to remain on his criminal record.

At the conclusion of the hearing, Gardner shouted that his victim was “a complete liar,” displaying a lack of remorse and further highlighting the seriousness of his actions. The case underscores the importance of safeguarding children and holding offenders accountable for their crimes in Trowbridge and beyond.