ANDREW GARDINER SENTENCED IN DORSET AND ARDROSSAN FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TWO GIRLS

In October 2012, Andrew Gardiner, a 55-year-old electronics worker from Dorset, was sentenced to a total of six years and five months in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing two young girls. The heinous acts took place at a residence in Ardrossan, Ayrshire, over a span of several years, with Gardiner exploiting the trust of his victims.

One of the victims was between the ages of five and 11 at the time of the abuse, while the other was between 12 and 16. Gardiner had pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to these offenses, acknowledging his misconduct at a house in Ardrossan during the period from 1994 to 2000. His actions involved a disturbing pattern of abuse directed at both girls, with one being particularly young and vulnerable.

The case came to light after one of the victims' mothers initiated an investigation by confronting Gardiner during a telephone call, during which he confessed to the abuse. This recorded confession provided crucial evidence that led to his conviction. Subsequently, another victim also contacted Gardiner, and he once again admitted to the misconduct, further confirming his guilt.

The sentencing took place at the High Court in Glasgow, where Judge Lady Stacey addressed Gardiner directly. She emphasized the gravity of his crimes, stating, "You pled guilty to a course of conduct involving two girls both under age and one of them very young, taking place over a period of years and I regard this was very serious and damaging to the complainers." The judge also expressed her concern about Gardiner's potential danger to other young girls, describing him as a threat to their safety.

As part of his sentence, Gardiner will be subject to supervised release for three years following his imprisonment, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct to prevent further harm. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and the devastating impact of abuse on young victims, as well as the justice system's efforts to hold offenders accountable.