JOHN GREGORY FROM BELPER SENTENCED AFTER SHOCKING INCIDENT AT ROYAL DERBY HOSPITAL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, John Gregory, a 75-year-old resident of Spencer Road, Belper, was convicted of a serious sexual assault that took place within the premises of the Royal Derby Hospital. The incident, which occurred on February 25 of this year, involved Gregory engaging in inappropriate physical contact with a young girl in a hospital corridor, an act that has led to his immediate imprisonment.

According to court reports, Gregory was observed by hospital staff in a corridor where he was seen touching the chest of the underage girl, who was described as a vulnerable and slow individual. The CCTV footage from the hospital captured the moment clearly, revealing Gregory’s brazen behavior and the lecherous expression on his face during the act. The footage showed him in close proximity to the girl, with his hands inappropriately placed, and his facial expression indicating a disturbing intent.

Judge Peter Cooke, presiding over the case at Derby Crown Court, emphasized the gravity of the offense. He pointed out that Gregory’s actions were particularly egregious given the setting—inside a hospital corridor, in front of staff members who were visibly shocked by the incident. The judge noted that Gregory initially denied the charge of sexual assault but later changed his plea to guilty on October 24.

During the sentencing, Judge Cooke remarked, “You reached the age of 75 retaining your good character but you have now lost it in the most spectacular circumstances. This offence is undoubtedly aggravated by the location and timing. It was in a hospital corridor in front of staff who were shocked to the core by what happened.”

The court was shown the CCTV footage, which Judge Cooke described as revealing Gregory’s “brazen nature.” He expressed confusion over Gregory’s continued denial of the act, despite the clear evidence. The judge further stated, “After watching the video, the lecherous expression on your face is what swayed me to make the prison sentence immediate. It is clear you are quite a worrying gentleman and you must face the reality of what you have done.”

Prosecutor Luke Blackburn explained that Gregory was visiting a patient at the hospital when the incident occurred. He described how Gregory “isolated” his young victim, and initially staff thought he was merely playing with the girl. However, upon closer inspection, they realized the man was significantly older than the girl and was engaging in inappropriate touching, specifically caressing her breasts.

As part of his sentence, Gregory was also subjected to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, aimed at protecting the public from any future offenses. The case has left many in the community deeply concerned about safety and the vulnerability of young individuals in public spaces, especially within healthcare facilities.