DAMION GAUL AND LUCY WOLFE FROM SOMPTING SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES AT CHICHESTER CROWN COURT

In a case that has shocked the community of Sompting, a local couple has been handed lengthy prison sentences after admitting to a series of serious sexual offences involving minors. The defendants, Lucy Anne Wolfe, aged 28 and a baker by profession, and Damion Gaul, aged 39 and currently unemployed, both resided on The Parade, Cokeham Road, in Sompting. Their appearance before Chichester Crown Court took place on Friday, November 25, following earlier guilty pleas entered during hearings earlier this year, according to a court spokesperson.

Lucy Wolfe faced multiple charges related to her involvement in disturbing sexual activities. She admitted to engaging in sexual acts in the presence of a child, taking indecent images of a minor, and sexually assaulting a child by penetration. These allegations paint a disturbing picture of her conduct, which the court found serious enough to warrant significant punishment.

Damion Gaul also pleaded guilty to four serious offences. His admissions included engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, taking indecent images of a minor, sexually assaulting a child by penetration, and failing to comply with the conditions of a Registered Sexual Offender Order. His failure to adhere to the legal restrictions placed upon him as a registered offender was also considered a grave breach.

As a result of these convictions, Gaul was sentenced to life imprisonment. The court mandated that he must serve a minimum of seven years before being eligible to apply for parole. The court also emphasized that if Gaul is released on parole, he will be subject to a lifelong licence condition that will prohibit him from having any access to children, aiming to prevent any future harm.

Lucy Wolfe received a sentence of ten years in prison. Her sentence includes an extended licence period of eight years following her eventual release, ensuring continued supervision. She is also required to serve at least six and a half years before she can be considered for parole. Additionally, Wolfe will be subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), which will impose strict restrictions on her access to children and computers, reflecting the severity of her offences and the court’s concern for public safety.

These sentences underscore the gravity of the crimes committed and the court’s commitment to protecting vulnerable minors from individuals who pose a significant risk. The community of Sompting, where both offenders resided, is left to grapple with the implications of this case, which highlights the importance of vigilance and robust legal action against such heinous offences.