HUCCLECOTE MAN JAILED FOR SEXUALLY ABUSING ELDERLY WOMAN WITH DEMENTIA
A man has received a prison sentence after being convicted of exploiting and sexually abusing a 92-year-old woman suffering from dementia whom he assisted in caring for.Eric Barton, 77 years old from Hillview Road in Hucclecote, was sentenced to five years and six months behind bars and is to be registered as a sex offender for life.
The sentence was handed down at Gloucester Crown Court on Monday, December 12, following a jury’s unanimous guilty verdict on five counts of engaging in sexual activities with a person with a mental disorder that impairs free choice.
Barton was acquitted on one charge of sexual penetration and one charge of inciting a person with a mental disorder to partake in sexual acts.
The trial, which concluded on December 9, revealed how Barton exploited the elderly woman in secret, while her relatives believed he was trustworthy, helping with gardening and household chores.
Concerns arose when carers observed him exiting the kitchen with his trousers adjusted and the woman pulling down her jumper.
CCTV footage later showed Barton engaging in sexual conduct with her.
Forensic experts testified that the victim lacked the mental capacity to comprehend what was happening due to her dementia, and the jury concluded that Barton exploited her vulnerability.
During the hearing, his defense argued Barton was unaware of the extent of her dementia and believed she could refuse if she wanted to.
They also claimed she was capable of and actively encouraged sexual encounters with him.
Additionally, it was highlighted that Barton had no prior criminal record.
The victim’s family submitted a statement expressing their distress, stating that their constant surveillance after the assault was out of fear of further harm.
They reflected on their regret for not placing her in a care home sooner and for not recognizing Barton’s misconduct earlier.
The family emphasized the betrayal of trust and the emotional harm it caused.
Detective Constable Robert Brown, from the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team, expressed satisfaction that the jury saw through Barton’s falsehoods.
He condemned Barton’s lack of remorse and noted that his plea of not guilty forced witnesses close to both defendant and victim to testify, making the case more distressing.
He acknowledged the vigilance of the victim’s carers in reporting suspicious behavior, which prevented greater harm.
The officer reinforced that such abuse will not be tolerated and that Gloucestershire Constabulary and the Crown Prosecution Service are committed to ensuring victims are supported and investigated thoroughly.
