ANDREW GORDON SENTENCED IN CLOUGH FOR CHILD RAPE ATTEMPT IN COUNTY ANTRIM

In February 2005, a man named Andrew Gordon from Clough, County Antrim, was sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a young girl. The victim was the seven-year-old daughter of a close friend of Gordon, and the case drew significant attention due to the betrayal of trust involved.

Andrew James Gordon, who resides on Glenleslie Road in Clough, faced multiple charges related to his misconduct. He admitted to seven separate offences, including attempted rape, which he committed during March and April of 2003. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing nature of his actions, which took place in private settings, including Gordon’s home and his vehicle.

The case was heard at Antrim Crown Court, where the presiding judge, Judge David Smyth, addressed the severity of the crimes. He emphasized that the fact Gordon was a friend of the child's mother and that the young girl had trusted him made his actions even more reprehensible. The judge pointed out that this breach of trust was a fundamental aspect of the case, highlighting the betrayal involved in abusing a position of friendship and confidence.

During the sentencing, Judge Smyth expressed concern about Gordon’s potential risk to others, despite the fact that he had no previous criminal record. He underscored that the nature of the offences was particularly egregious because of the abuse of the trust placed in Gordon by the child's family.

In his remarks, the judge noted that if the case had proceeded to a full trial and Gordon had been convicted, the sentence would have been at least ten years. This projection was based on the serious impact the crimes had on the young victim and the need for justice to reflect the gravity of the offences.

Gordon’s guilty plea included charges of attempted rape, three counts of indecent assault, and three counts of gross indecency. As part of his sentence, he was ordered to be placed on the sex offenders register for life. Additionally, upon his release, he will undergo a three-year probationary period during which he will receive treatment aimed at addressing his behaviour and preventing future offences.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of abuse of trust and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from harm, especially when the perpetrator is someone they know and trust.