JAMES CHAPMAN GORTON SEX OFFENDER BANNED FROM CHILDREN AFTER MOLESTATION INCIDENT

In October 2010, a disturbing case emerged involving James Chapman, a resident of Gorton, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a young boy outside his own home. The incident took place in the quiet suburb of south Manchester, where Chapman, then 59 years old, targeted a boy under the age of 10 who was sitting on the front garden wall of his parents' house.

The assault was witnessed by another young boy, adding to the distress of the victim, who was left deeply disturbed and plagued by fears that Chapman might attack him again. The Manchester Crown Court heard that the assault had a lasting psychological impact on the young boy, with concerns raised about potential long-term emotional consequences.

Chapman, who was unemployed at the time and residing on Barnard Road in Gorton, was sentenced to 16 months in prison after admitting to the sexual assault during an earlier hearing. It was revealed that he had previously worked at B&M Bargains in Gorton before losing his job. The court was informed that Chapman exhibited 'deviant' tendencies and had a troubling preoccupation with sex.

According to reports, Chapman was walking down the street when he noticed the young boy and attempted to initiate a conversation. After passing by, he returned and proceeded to molest the child. When initially questioned by authorities, Chapman denied the offence, claiming only that he had spoken to the boy about football. However, he later pleaded guilty to the charges in court.

Defense lawyer Simon Blakebrough commented on Chapman's behavior, stating, “Since this date he has completely stopped drinking. This appears to have been the trigger for this offending in this case.”

During sentencing, Judge Anthony Gee QC expressed concern about the potential long-term effects on the victim, emphasizing that emotional and psychological issues could manifest later in life. The judge criticized Chapman for showing no remorse and highlighted his preoccupation with sex, which appeared to be the driving force behind the offence. He pointed out that Chapman’s interest was particularly focused on male children and that the assault was carried out randomly in the street for his own sexual gratification.

As part of the court’s ruling, Chapman was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order. This order prohibits him from speaking to or approaching within two metres of any unaccompanied children under 16 who are not related to him, except during routine commercial transactions. Furthermore, if he encounters any child accompanied by a parent or guardian, he is required to inform them of his conviction and the circumstances surrounding it. Additionally, Chapman is mandated to register as a sex offender for a period of 10 years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities and compliance with the law.