CYRIL PATCHETT SENTENCED IN BINGHAM FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Bingham, Cyril Patchett, a 75-year-old resident of Queens Court, was formally sentenced after being found guilty of multiple charges related to the sexual assault of a young girl. The incident, which took place in the Nottingham area, has brought to light serious concerns about safeguarding and the protection of minors in the region.

Patchett faced four counts of sexually assaulting a girl who was only 12 and 13 years old at the time of the offenses. Despite his vehement denial of the charges, the jury at Nottingham Crown Court reached a majority verdict in favor of guilt last year. The court's decision marked a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to address child abuse cases within the community.

On the day of sentencing, Judge Michael Stokes QC imposed a sentence of 12 months in prison, to be served concurrently on all charges. However, recognizing the circumstances, the judge suspended the sentence for a period of two years, allowing Patchett to avoid immediate imprisonment provided he complies with certain conditions. As part of his sentence, Patchett is required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and is explicitly prohibited from engaging in any employment involving children.

Additionally, a strict curfew was ordered, requiring Patchett to remain indoors between 9 pm and 7 am for the next three months. The judge emphasized the gravity of the case, stating, “You have been punished by the ending of your business and your fall from grace is a very steep one indeed.”

The court heard that the young girl was subjected to inappropriate touching over her clothing by Patchett. The judge highlighted the tragic aspect of the case, noting that when the girl confided in someone about what had happened, no action was taken to protect her, which unfortunately allowed the abuse to continue. Despite the verdict, Patchett continues to deny the charges, maintaining that the girl misunderstood his actions. The judge remarked, “Even now you are not accepting the verdict of the jury, that you maintain she misconstrued innocent actions on your part.”

The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Bingham, raising awareness about the importance of vigilance and proper response to allegations of abuse. The court's decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and the commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals in the region.