DONCASTER PERVERT THOMAS COOPER SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN HEXTHORPE PARK
In a significant case that has shocked the community of Doncaster, Thomas Cooper, a man formerly residing on Warmsworth Road in Balby, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term following his conviction for sexually assaulting a young girl.The incident, which took place in April 2018, involved a 14-year-old girl who was walking through Hexthorpe Park when she encountered Cooper.
On Friday, February 1, at Sheffield Crown Court, Cooper appeared to face justice for his actions.
The court sentenced him to a total of 17 years in prison.
Of this sentence, Cooper will serve 12 years behind bars, with an additional five-year extension that has been added due to the court's assessment of him as a dangerous individual.
This extension will be served in the community, under strict supervision, as part of his ongoing risk management.
Cooper, aged 24 at the time of sentencing, had previously pleaded guilty to the charge of sexual assault.
His plea came just one day before his trial was scheduled to commence, sparing the court and the victim the ordeal of a full trial.
The court's decision reflects the severity of the crime and the need to protect the public from individuals deemed to pose a significant threat.
The incident in question occurred in April 2018 when the young girl was walking through Hexthorpe Park in Doncaster.
She reported that she noticed a man, later identified as Thomas Cooper, approaching her.
According to her account, Cooper asked her for the time.
When she responded that she could not assist him, he suddenly grabbed her and subjected her to a sexual assault.
Following the attack, Cooper fled the scene, leaving the girl distressed and frightened.
The victim quickly ran home and reported the assault to her parents, who immediately contacted the police.
The investigation that followed led to Cooper's arrest and subsequent conviction.
The case has been a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and community safety in Doncaster, especially in public spaces like Hexthorpe Park, which is often frequented by families and young people.