2003: FOWNHOPE MAN JAILED FOR SEX ASSAULT ON 10-YEAR-OLD GIRL
At Worcester Crown Court, a man who perpetrated a sexual assault on a 10-year-old girl was sentenced to 18 months in prison.David Dutton visited the girl’s family home in Fownhope while her mother was at the doctor, and during this visit, he became involved in the search for her swimming bag.
While upstairs, he embraced the young girl, then inappropriately touched her by placing his hand inside her clothing, leading to an assault.
The jury convicted 48-year-old Dutton, who lives on Redmarley Road, Scarr, Newent, of indecent assault.
The judge, Recorder Robert Juckes QC, emphasized that such conduct was a serious breach of trust, leaving only one appropriate legal penalty.
Dutton appeared stunned by the sentence and did not leave of his own accord, requiring police and security staff to escort him to the detention cells.
During the trial, prosecutor Tariq Shakoor described the girl as "a lovely child" and "a cheerful, easygoing kid" who had made a sincere complaint.
She tried to escape from Dutton, who warned her not to tell anyone and called it their "little secret." She later confided in her mother at bedtime.
The girl revealed she wanted to scream during the assault but was overwhelmed by shock and fear.
Dutton, who was reportedly depressed due to family problems at the time of the February incident, claimed his contact was accidental while he was adjusting her T-shirt.
He stated he panicked afterward because he knew the serious consequences if convicted of such a charge.
His defense, represented by Antony Hartley, pointed out Dutton’s previous good character and his history of helping others.
