LUKE GILLARD FROM FLINT SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING YOUNG GIRL IN MOLD

A man identified as Luke Gillard has been sentenced to prison after engaging in sexual activities with a young girl, having deliberately misrepresented his age to her. The incident took place in Flint, and the case was heard at Mold Crown Court.

Gillard, aged 20, appeared via video link from HMP Berwyn for his sentencing hearing on Wednesday. He had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of penetrative sexual activity with a child and one count of sexual activity with a child. The court was informed that Gillard's actions involved not only sexual contact but also sexual touching of the young girl, with the prosecution revealing that he was aware of her age but chose to lie about his own to appear younger and manipulate the situation.

Prosecutor Anna Price detailed the nature of the offenses, emphasizing that Gillard's deception was a key element in the case. She explained that during police interviews, Gillard relied on a prepared statement in which he denied any sexual contact with the girl. He also claimed to have autism and ADHD, attempting to justify or explain his behavior. However, he later admitted to the offenses during his plea and trial preparation hearing.

The court heard a statement from the victim, which was read aloud, describing the profound emotional impact the offenses had on her. She expressed feelings of self-blame and shared that the trauma kept her awake at night, highlighting the lasting damage caused by Gillard's actions.

Defense lawyer Ryan Rothwell requested the court to consider a reduced sentence, citing Gillard's young age and mental health issues. He pointed out that Gillard has diagnosed psychiatric conditions, including suspected autism and ADHD, and argued that these factors, along with his lack of maturity, should be taken into account. Rothwell also raised concerns about Gillard's ability to cope within a custodial environment, noting that he had already experienced abuse while in prison.

It was also noted that Gillard had no prior convictions and that there had been delays in bringing the case to court. The defendant had written a letter expressing remorse and acknowledging the victim's feelings, which was read to the court.

Judge Niclas Parry addressed Gillard directly, emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses. He pointed out the significant age disparity and the fact that Gillard had lied about his age, which demonstrated awareness of the wrongdoing. The judge stated that, according to psychiatric reports, Gillard's mental health issues did not significantly impair his understanding of the illegality of his actions and likely had limited influence on his decision-making.

As a result, Judge Parry sentenced Gillard to 27 months in a young offenders' institution, with the sentence to be served immediately. Additionally, a restraining order and a sexual harm prevention order were imposed for ten years, along with notification requirements as a sex offender for the same period. At the conclusion of the hearing, the judge addressed the public gallery, which included the victim and her family, commending their dignity throughout the proceedings.