PAUL BUCKLAND FROM PLYMOUTH AND TIDWORTH SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD SEX OFFENCES

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Plymouth and Tidworth, Paul Buckland, aged 35, has been handed a severe prison sentence of 20 years after being convicted of multiple heinous sexual offences involving a child under the age of 13. The offences, which spanned over a decade, were committed while Buckland was residing in Tidworth, located on the eastern edge of Salisbury Plain, before he moved to Plymouth.

According to court records, Buckland was found guilty of nine separate sexual offences, including two counts of rape of a child under 13, two counts of attempted rape of a child under 13, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, one count of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, and two counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act. These disturbing crimes were reported to Wiltshire Police in 2020, prompting a thorough investigation that eventually led to Buckland’s arrest and subsequent prosecution.

During the sentencing at Winchester Crown Court, it was noted that Buckland chose not to attend the hearing to hear his sentence, a decision that was viewed unfavorably by the court and considered an aggravating factor, resulting in the maximum penalty being imposed. The court also mandated that Buckland will be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order, measures designed to protect the community from further harm.

Law enforcement officials have publicly praised the bravery of the victim who came forward to report Buckland’s crimes, emphasizing the importance of reporting such offences to ensure justice is served. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of police and judicial authorities to combat child sexual abuse and bring offenders to justice, regardless of how long ago the crimes were committed.