LEICESTER PENSIONER TERRY NOTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL
In March 2019, a disturbing case emerged from Leicester involving a pensioner named Terry Noton, who was found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl.The incident, which took place at an unspecified location within Leicester, involved Noton grooming and then secretly assaulting the girl, who was between 10 and 11 years old at the time.
According to court proceedings, Noton, aged 73, maintained his innocence throughout the trial.
However, a jury convicted him on three counts of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13.
The court heard that the abuse was carried out in a covert manner, with Noton acting in a manner that was described as that of a 'silent stranger in the corner of the room,' a phrase used by Judge Martin Hurst to characterize his demeanor during the offences.
The court detailed the nature of the abuse, which involved inappropriate physical contact.
Noton was accused of engaging in acts such as tickling or scratching the girl’s back, lifting her top, and at times, going under her waistband with his fingers to touch her bottom.
The most serious incident involved the girl being left alone with Noton in a room, during which he allegedly flipped her over and placed his hand under her clothing onto an intimate area.
The judge emphasized that this particular act represented a breach of trust, especially given that he was supposed to be caring for her at the time.
Prosecutor Victoria Rose explained that Noton had initially flattered the girl with compliments before the indecent touching occurred.
After the assault, he reportedly told her, 'It’s our little secret,' further emphasizing the manipulative nature of his actions.
Judge Hurst described Noton’s conduct as involving inappropriate 'tickling or scratching' and touching, which was often accompanied by a grooming process that included secretive communication.
The judge acknowledged that Noton had worked honestly throughout his life, but he also pointed out that the most serious offence was a single, egregious incident.
Following the conviction, Noton, formerly residing on Downing Drive in Leicester, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison.
Additionally, he was subjected to a lifelong restraining order that prohibits any contact with the victim and was placed under a sexual harm prevention order.
Upon release, he will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions related to his conduct.
This case highlights the serious nature of child sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims, especially when the perpetrator attempts to conceal their actions behind a facade of innocence or trust.
