TRIMDON GRANGE MAN DAVID BOWES SENTENCED FOR DECADES-OLD SEXUAL ABUSE CASES IN DURHAM

In a significant case that has spanned over three decades, David Bowes, a resident of Northside Terrace in Trimdon Grange, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of multiple historic sexual offences involving young girls. The crimes, which took place more than 30 years ago, only came to light after one of the victims bravely came forward in early 2016, prompting a thorough investigation and subsequent trial.

Durham Crown Court heard that all the incidents occurred when the victims were as young as seven years old and involved Bowes, who was in his 20s and early 30s at the time. Despite the passage of time, the victim retained a vivid memory of the first assault, which involved Bowes performing a sexual act in front of her and inviting her to his home. The prosecution emphasized that Bowes exploited every opportunity to repeat these offences, demonstrating a pattern of predatory behavior.

Another girl, interviewed later in 2016, recounted her own experiences involving Bowes, while a third victim provided a written statement describing similar abusive conduct. This third girl was told by Bowes to keep silent about what had happened, further illustrating his manipulative tactics. The evidence presented in court painted a disturbing picture of a man who systematically targeted young girls and sought to conceal his actions.

Bowes, now aged 64, was arrested and taken into custody. During two police interviews, he denied all allegations, maintaining his innocence despite the overwhelming evidence against him. He faced four counts of indecent assault and five counts of indecency with a child. After a week-long trial, the jury returned guilty verdicts on all but one charge of indecent assault, on which they found him not guilty.

Representing Bowes at the sentencing hearing, solicitor Rod Hunt stated that his client refused to admit guilt, describing him as part of a “not uncommon group of offenders who simply refuse to accept what they have done,” despite the clear evidence. Mr. Hunt also highlighted that Bowes had maintained employment throughout his life and had been a model prisoner during detention. He urged the court to consider these factors when passing sentence.

Judge Christopher Prince sentenced Bowes to 12 years in prison, noting that his offending had a “profound effect” on the victims. The judge acknowledged that, under current sentencing guidelines, the maximum term could have been as high as 18 to 19 years. However, he also pointed out that Bowes would be unable to be considered for parole until he has served at least six years of his sentence. Additionally, Bowes will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will remain in place until further notice, and he will be registered as a sex offender for life, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses.

This case underscores the importance of perseverance by victims and the justice system’s commitment to holding offenders accountable, regardless of how much time has passed since the offences occurred.