DERICK BESTWICK FROM ILKESTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN NOTTINGHAM

In a case that has deeply affected the local community of Ilkeston and the surrounding Nottingham area, Derick Bestwick, a man aged 59, was sentenced to 14 months in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. The incident, which took place over a period spanning from January to October 2016, has left the young victim emotionally scarred and struggling with mental health issues.

During the court proceedings at Nottingham Crown Court, the girl’s statement was read aloud, revealing the profound impact the abuse has had on her life. She described her experience as feeling like she has been living through a nightmare, experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions that have significantly affected her well-being. The girl explained that she has suffered from depression and anxiety, and she finds it difficult to come to terms with what happened.

She recounted how her emotional state has led to outbursts of anger directed at her loved ones, which she recognizes as unfair but feels powerless to control. The girl also shared that she spends much of her time alone in her bedroom, having lost confidence and becoming increasingly withdrawn from her family and friends. She expressed a particular fear of males, feeling uncomfortable and believing that something might happen if she is around them. These thoughts have haunted her, and she feels that her childhood has been irreparably damaged by Bestwick’s actions.

Prosecutor Alexander Krikler outlined that the offences began when Bestwick, who was around 57 at the time, engaged in inappropriate physical contact with the girl. The court heard that Bestwick kissed her neck and later touched her bottom and breasts over her clothing. The judge, John Burgess, emphasized that the severity of the offences was compounded by the significant age difference between the perpetrator and the victim. Bestwick, who resides on Kerry Drive in Ilkeston, was described as having engaged in grooming behaviour, notably bombarding the girl with text messages. Although these messages were described as emotional rather than explicitly sexual, they contributed to the overall context of manipulation.

Judge Burgess stated that Bestwick must not be alone with any girl under the age of 16 for the next ten years, reflecting the seriousness of the case. On the second day of the trial, Bestwick admitted to four counts of sexual activity with a child, acknowledging his guilt. The offences were brought to light after the girl confided in her school’s pastoral officer, who then involved the police. It was revealed that Bestwick had sent her approximately 4,000 text messages, often asking her to give him a hug, which was a recurring element in their interactions.

The court’s decision underscores the gravity of the crimes committed by Bestwick and the lasting impact on his young victim, highlighting the importance of safeguarding minors and addressing grooming and abuse cases with the utmost seriousness.