NEIL MORROW SENTENCED TO LIFE IN DIBDEN FOR PREDATORY SEX OFFENSES

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Dibden, Neil Morrow, a known offender with a disturbing history, was sentenced to life imprisonment after a brutal attack on a teenage girl. The incident took place in May 2004, when Morrow, 24 years old at the time, targeted a 15-year-old girl walking along a secluded path known locally as Lovers Lane, situated off Challenger Way in Dibden.

According to court reports, Morrow approached the young victim from behind and forcibly pushed her to the ground. He then proceeded to indecently assault her, during which he pulled down her trousers and ripped them in the process. The assault escalated as Morrow kneeled on her head, further terrifying the girl. Despite the assault, the victim managed to fight back, kicking Morrow in the groin, which gave her the opportunity to escape and seek help.

Prosecutor Justin Gau detailed the attack, emphasizing that Morrow had come out from behind her and laid on top of her, attempting to assault her. The girl’s ordeal was compounded by the trauma she described in a letter read aloud in court, revealing how the attack has left her with lasting psychological scars. She now experiences panic attacks when people are behind her and has developed a general suspicion of men, illustrating the profound impact of the assault on her mental health.

DNA evidence played a crucial role in the arrest of Morrow, who resides on Cambria Drive in Dibden. He was taken into custody shortly after the attack, which occurred on September 18 of the previous year. Morrow admitted to one charge of indecent assault but was also found guilty by a Southampton Crown Court jury of attempted rape, confirming the severity of his predatory behavior.

During the sentencing hearing, Morrow’s defense attorney, Gary Venturi, expressed remorse, stating that Morrow was “ashamed” to find himself in court once again. Venturi acknowledged the public’s concern but suggested that efforts could be made to address Morrow’s issues while he remains incarcerated.

Judge David Griffiths, presiding over the case, delivered a stern sentence, emphasizing that life imprisonment was the only appropriate punishment given the circumstances. The judge pointed out that Morrow had deliberately targeted a vulnerable young girl, and it was only her courage and resistance that prevented a more tragic outcome. The court noted Morrow’s pattern of offending, which involved targeting young women who were strangers to him, indicating a high risk of reoffending.

While Morrow will be eligible for parole after serving five years, Judge Griffiths warned the public not to assume he would be released at that time. He explained that the Parole Board conducts thorough risk assessments before any decision is made regarding early release, underscoring the seriousness with which such cases are handled.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Paul Williams commented on the case, stating, “Morrow clearly posed a danger to the public, particularly to young girls, and we are very pleased with the sentence. The victim was deeply shaken and hurt by the attack, but I am pleased to report she is recovering well, having moved away from the area.”

As part of his punishment, Morrow’s name has been added to the Sex Offenders’ Register, and he has been prohibited from working with children, reflecting the court’s efforts to protect the community from further harm.