GEORGE GOW PREDATORY PAEDOPHILE FROM BARKING SENTENCED TO 11 YEARS IN PRISON

In a case that has shocked the community of Barking, a man named George Gow, aged 61, has been handed down an 11-year prison sentence after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences involving young boys. The sentencing took place at Kingston Crown Court on a recent Friday, following a thorough investigation and a series of criminal charges that highlighted Gow's predatory behavior.

Gow, a resident of Bastable Avenue in Barking, was found guilty of six counts under the Sexual Offences Act 1956. These included indecent assault and sexual assault on children under the age of 16, with some charges relating specifically to victims as young as 13. The court heard how Gow exploited his position and trust within the community to lure vulnerable boys into his home with promises of cigarettes, alcohol, and mobile phone top-ups, only to subject them to sexual abuse.

The case drew significant attention from law enforcement, particularly the Metropolitan Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Command. The Barking and Dagenham Jigsaw Team, responsible for monitoring registered sex offenders and those deemed potentially dangerous or seriously violent, first visited Gow’s residence in January 2011. This visit was prompted by intelligence indicating that children were frequently visiting his home. During the inspection, officers discovered Gow naked inside his house with a 15-year-old boy. However, no formal allegations were made by the young individual at that time, and consequently, no criminal charges could be filed.

Despite this, the Serious Case Team launched a proactive investigation into Gow’s activities in May of the previous year. Over a two-week surveillance period, officers observed five different children entering his property, raising further concerns about his conduct. On June 22, Gow was arrested after a young male was seen entering his house. Although this particular boy declined to make any allegations, and no charges were filed at that point, Gow was placed under strict bail conditions.

Further inquiries led to the identification of a 10-year-old boy who disclosed details of a sexual assault committed by Gow. This revelation prompted Gow’s immediate re-arrest and the formal charging of sexual assault and inciting offences. He was subsequently remanded in custody. The investigation also uncovered evidence of offences dating back to between 1995 and 2002, indicating a long history of offending behavior.

In addition to his prison sentence, Gow faces a lengthy period of supervision upon release. He will spend 10 years on licence, remain on the sex offenders register indefinitely, and be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. These measures aim to prevent any further harm and ensure ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Detective Constable Ben Markham issued a statement condemning Gow’s actions, describing him as a “predatory paedophile who exploited young and vulnerable boys in a calculating manner.” He expressed gratitude to the victims for their bravery and patience throughout the legal process, emphasizing that their support was crucial in securing the conviction. Detective Markham also urged anyone who suspects they may have been victimized by Gow or similar offenders to come forward and report their concerns to the police. The investigation team can be contacted directly at 020 7161 2811, or members of the public can call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, ChildLine at 0800 1111, or report incidents at their local police station.