SEX OFFENDER BRIAN COOKE SENTENCED FOR MOLESTATION IN WORCESTER
2003: Brian Cooke, a 43-year-old man from Gloucester, was convicted of molesting a 12-year-old girl in her bedroom during a visit to a family in Worcester.The victim's mother found Cooke on the floor attempting to fasten his trousers, having been caught in the act.
Court proceedings also linked Cooke to a separate assault on a 13-year-old girl in Gloucester, involving physical sexual attacks.
The judge noted that the victims' ages made the crimes especially serious.
Cooke was found guilty of indecent assault against the Worcester girl, attempted rape of the Gloucester girl, and two additional counts of indecent assault.
Judge John Cavell sentenced him to life on the sex offenders register and extended his license by three years after release.
Cooke, residing on Bristol Road, Quedgley, Gloucester, had traveled to Worcester in June of the previous year after a day of heavy drinking while watching an England World Cup match.
The court described him as a lonely, troubled individual suffering from depression and mental health issues, who had begun self-destructive behavior through alcohol abuse and self-harm.
While in custody awaiting sentencing, Cooke engaged in self-harm.
His defense cited personal grief following his son’s death and subsequent family breakdowns, arguing that these factors contributed to his mental health difficulties and possibly his offending behaviors.
