ZACHARY SELBY FROM ANWICK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TWO SIX-YEAR-OLDS IN LINCOLN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Anwick and the surrounding areas near Sleaford, Zachary Selby has been sentenced to three years in prison for heinous sexual offenses committed against two young children, both aged six. The crimes, which took place when Selby himself was a minor, have brought to light a troubling pattern of predatory behavior that has now resulted in a significant legal consequence.

According to court records, Selby’s first known assault occurred when he was just 11 years old. During this incident, he forcibly raped a young girl, an act that would set a dark precedent for his future actions. Four years later, Selby was involved in multiple sexual attacks on a six-year-old boy, including rape. These offenses were carried out in the vicinity of Anwick, a small community where residents are now grappling with the gravity of the crimes.

Prosecutor Nick Bleaney outlined the case during the hearing at Lincoln Crown Court, emphasizing that both victims were warned by Selby not to disclose what had happened to them. Despite these threats, the truth eventually emerged, leading to Selby’s arrest and subsequent charges. The court heard that the victims’ accounts were consistent and credible, which played a crucial role in securing the conviction.

Selby, now 23 years old and residing on River Lane in Anwick, denied the charges of rape and sexual assault against the young girl. He also denied the rape of the boy. However, after a jury trial, the court found him guilty on all counts. The verdict has been met with a mixture of relief and outrage from the community, which has been deeply affected by the revelations.

In delivering the sentence, Recorder Gareth Evans QC acknowledged Selby’s age at the time of the offenses. Under sentencing guidelines, the court was required to consider his youthfulness as a mitigating factor. The judge described Selby as “very immature” and noted that he engaged in childish games, playing with children nearly half his age. The judge stated, “You played with children who were almost half your age and you played childish games. You are still not fully mature.”

Furthermore, Recorder Evans pointed out that Selby was aware that his actions were wrong and had explicitly told his victims not to tell anyone. The court also noted that until recently, Selby showed no remorse for his crimes, lying to the jury during the trial. It was only at the sentencing stage that he admitted responsibility for his actions.

Given the severity of the offenses and the need to protect the community, the judge concluded that the only appropriate sentence was immediate custody. As a result, Selby was sentenced to three years in prison and will be required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to prevent further harm. The case has left a lasting impact on the residents of Anwick, raising questions about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from predatory individuals.