GARY DOVER FROM GATESHEAD AND STOCKTON: SERIAL SEX OFFENDER BANNED FROM CONTACT WITH MINORS IN NORTH EAST

In a significant development in the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children in the North East, Gary Dover, a convicted serial sex offender with ties to Gateshead and Stockton, has been subjected to a court order that severely restricts his interactions with anyone under the age of 18. This legal measure was imposed following his recent release from prison and aims to prevent any potential re-offending.

Gary Dover, now residing at Cuthbert House in Gateshead, has been described by authorities as a 'Fagin-style Satanist,' a term that underscores the disturbing nature of his criminal history and associations. The order, an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), was granted at Teesside Magistrates Court on Monday, February 11, in response to concerns about his past behavior and the risk he poses to the community.

At 47 years old, Dover's criminal record is extensive. He was released from prison last year after serving a 12-month sentence for breaching a previous court order. His arrest in September was prompted by police suspicions after he was seen in the company of young men and was found to have provided a false name during questioning. These actions raised alarms about his compliance with the conditions of his release and his potential contact with minors.

His history of offending is deeply troubling. In 2012, Dover-Afflick was jailed again after a campaign by local residents in Billingham, Teesside, who sought to alert others about his presence in the area. The community's concern was heightened by his previous disappearance in 2007, which led to a nationwide manhunt when he failed to notify authorities of a change of name and address, violating the terms of his release. Residents used social media platforms like Facebook to warn each other about his whereabouts, fearing for the safety of local children.

Detective Chief Inspector Jason Dickson of Cleveland Police’s Vulnerability Unit emphasized the police's close cooperation with residents and partner agencies. He explained that registered sex offenders are subject to strict restrictions, including the obligation to inform police of any change in their personal details. Dover-Afflick’s failure to comply with these requirements led to his swift re-arrest and return to custody, demonstrating the effectiveness of vigilant community policing.

Dover-Afflick’s criminal history includes offenses such as blackmail, supplying drugs, and indecent assault on vulnerable boys aged between nine and 14. His pattern of behavior involved offering shelter in squats, providing drugs, and indoctrinating young individuals with Satanist beliefs. His methods often included physical abuse and sexual assault, which contributed to his notoriety and the public's fear.

Following his 1997 conviction at Bristol Crown Court, where he received a 14-year sentence, Dover-Afflick was released but continued to pose a threat. His presence in areas like Sunnybrow Avenue in Billingham has caused significant concern among residents, who reported that children were afraid to play outside and some avoided visiting local shops to steer clear of him. Grandmother Margaret Adam expressed her disgust, stating, “We were just disgusted by it, but the police just couldn’t do anything. It was just disgusting.”

In June 2012, Dover-Afflick was arrested again in Stockton after breaching a court order. He was accused of failing to notify police of his change of address and deliberately providing a false name during a routine police stop on Norton Road. His failure to comply with the conditions of his release led to a court appearance where he did not enter a plea, and no bail was granted due to the lack of a suitable address.

His criminal activities, which include targeting young boys, have led to widespread concern and ongoing police vigilance. Dover-Afflick’s history of avoiding police contact and his repeated breaches of court orders highlight the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing high-risk offenders. His case remains under close scrutiny as authorities continue efforts to ensure community safety and prevent further harm.