DAVID TUCKWOOD FROM CLIFTON ESCAPES JAIL AFTER INDECENT ASSAULT ON TEENAGER

In a case that has spanned over a decade, a man from Clifton has been ordered to register as a sex offender following his conviction for indecently assaulting a teenage girl. The incident, which occurred 13 years ago, came to light recently when the victim, now an adult, reported the matter to the police, prompting an investigation that led to the arrest of David Tuckwood, aged 38, of Homewell Walk, Clifton.

During a hearing at Nottingham Crown Court, Tuckwood pleaded guilty to the charges. The court was informed that he received a nine-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time in prison unless he committed another offence within that period. The basis of his plea was that he did not realize the individual he was touching intimately was a minor at the time of the assault. According to court records, Tuckwood explained that when the girl turned to face him and he saw her face, he continued his inappropriate behaviour for a brief period.

Judge Nigel Gosmark QC acknowledged the defendant’s claim of mistaken belief, stating, “I accept this was — on the basis of your plea — mistaken.” The judge also imposed a series of additional measures aimed at preventing future harm. These included a sexual harm prevention order, a requirement for Tuckwood to sign the sex offenders’ register for ten years, and a restraining order to keep him away from the victim. Furthermore, the court ordered Tuckwood to attend mental health treatment appointments, recognizing the defendant’s ongoing mental health difficulties.

Judge Gosmark emphasized the passage of time since the offence, noting, “This was 13 years ago. You have had mental health difficulties over the last few years. There have been concerns about your behaviour when you are not well.” The court also considered the possibility of restricting Tuckwood’s employment opportunities, particularly in roles involving children, in light of his conviction.

Prosecutor Laura Pitman described the incident, stating that the girl, who cannot be identified due to the nature of the charges, was only 13 years old at the time she confronted Tuckwood. She recounted that the girl asked him, “What are you doing?” but Tuckwood did not respond and later laughed when she confronted him again. The court was also told that a family member had spoken with Tuckwood, who denied any wrongdoing. It was revealed that the incident was not reported to authorities until many years later, which contributed to the delay in bringing the case to court.

Defence lawyer Martin Elwick called an expert witness to provide insight into Tuckwood’s mental health, suggesting that he would benefit from ongoing mental health treatment. Mr. Elwick described his client as someone who lives a very isolated life, which may have contributed to his difficulties. The court’s decision reflects a combination of accountability and a recognition of the need for mental health support to prevent future offences.