TERRENCE MINTON FROM BIGGLESWADE ON SEX OFFENDERS REGISTER AFTER ATTACK ON TEENAGER

In December 2009, a serious criminal case unfolded involving Terrence Minton, a resident of Windermere Drive in Biggleswade. Minton was officially placed on the sex offenders' register and issued a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) following a disturbing incident involving a 14-year-old girl.

Earlier that year, on April 2, an assault occurred that would lead to Minton's conviction. The case was brought before Bedford Magistrates' Court, where Minton, aged 63, faced charges of sexual assault. Despite his initial plea of not guilty, the court found him guilty in November after a detailed trial.

During the trial, it was alleged that Minton approached the young girl and made an inappropriate and disturbing comment, claiming he had 'always wanted to have sex with her.' The court heard that he then proceeded to grab her bottom, kiss her, and attempt to pull her into a utility room, actions that caused significant distress to the victim. The girl managed to break free from his grasp and later confided in her boyfriend about the incident. She subsequently informed her parents and contacted the police to report the assault.

Throughout the proceedings, Minton maintained his innocence, denying the allegations. When questioned about his comment, he was advised by his duty solicitor to make no comment, which is a common legal strategy in such cases. Despite his denial, the magistrates found sufficient evidence to convict him in November.

Following his conviction, Minton was released from custody pending the preparation of a pre-sentence report. The court then imposed a series of strict conditions to prevent further harm. The SOPO prohibits him from contacting or approaching the victim in any manner. It also restricts him from having any unsupervised contact with children under the age of 18 unless a parent, guardian, or responsible adult is present.

In addition to the SOPO, Minton was ordered to register as a sex offender. He received a 12-month community order, which involves certain rehabilitative and supervisory measures. Furthermore, he was mandated to pay the victim £1,000 in compensation for the trauma caused, along with £450 in court costs. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of the justice system to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure offenders are held accountable for their actions.