WILLIAM GOLDING FROM GILLINGHAM SENTENCED FOR CHILD MOLESTATION IN MAIDSTONE

In October 2015, William Golding, an 87-year-old former ambulance driver residing on Farnham Close in Gillingham, was sentenced to three years in prison after admitting to the sexual assault of a young boy. The case, heard at Maidstone Crown Court, revealed disturbing details about Golding’s misconduct and the impact it had on his young victim.

Golding, who previously served in the Royal Navy, used intimidation tactics to silence the boy, warning him that revealing the abuse would result in imprisonment. The victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, confided that Golding told him the abuse was a secret and that he could not disclose it to anyone. This manipulation created a climate of fear, making it difficult for the boy to seek help or tell anyone about the abuse.

The court heard that Golding had exposed himself to the child and engaged in indecent touching. Prosecutor Danny Moore stated that during police custody, Golding disclosed additional details about his inappropriate conduct to a nurse, admitting that he knew his actions were wrong but was unable to explain why he engaged in such behaviour. The court was informed that the victim has since been receiving counselling and is making progress in overcoming the trauma inflicted upon him.

Golding, who was described as a man of previously impeccable character, admitted to two counts of sexual assault involving a child under the age of 13. His defence lawyer, Tom Stern, highlighted Golding’s long-standing family life, noting that he is a father of three and was married for 47 years. Stern also emphasized Golding’s contributions to society, including his work after leaving the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy, where he served as an ambulance driver. Additionally, Golding spent two decades working for the Port of London Authority, conducting riverbed surveys.

Despite these positive aspects of his life, Stern acknowledged the gravity of the charges and the impact on Golding’s marriage. He expressed that it was difficult for Golding to comprehend why he had committed these acts, and he stressed that Golding had fully acknowledged his wrongdoing. The lawyer also pointed out that Golding’s actions had caused significant repercussions within his family.

Judge Philip Statman addressed Golding directly, condemning his behaviour as wholly unacceptable. He explained that Golding’s actions involved grooming conduct, which instilled fear in the young victim about what might happen if he disclosed the abuse. The judge emphasized that as an adult, Golding had a responsibility to act appropriately, and his misconduct had severely damaged the victim’s sense of safety and trust.

Judge Statman further remarked that Golding’s conduct had devastating consequences for his family, who had no idea about his sexual proclivities. He expressed the view that Golding still had a long way to go in understanding the nature of his offending, although he acknowledged that Golding had shown some remorse during his confession. The judge indicated hope that Golding would undergo sex offender treatment either while in custody or after his release, to address his behaviour.

As part of his sentence, Golding’s name will be entered onto the sex offenders’ register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct. The case underscores the serious nature of child sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims, regardless of the offender’s age or background.