PAUL GLEGHORN FROM EGGINTON JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEEN GIRL IN DERBYSHIRE

In September 2008, a disturbing case unfolded involving Paul Gleghorn, a 37-year-old businessman from Egginton, who was sentenced to prison for the sexual abuse of a teenage girl. Gleghorn, serving as the managing director of Gas Care, a company based in Swadlincote, was found guilty of grooming and engaging in inappropriate sexual acts with a girl who was still in her early teens.

The victim’s parents discovered the troubling extent of Gleghorn’s misconduct after they came across a series of inappropriate messages he had sent to their daughter via MSN Messenger. These messages included disturbing references to kissing her and even expressed a desire to run away together, which deeply shocked and distressed the family. The girl’s mother recounted that the revelation caused her daughter immense stress and emotional turmoil, describing the experience as a nightmare for their family.

The parents expressed their anguish, stating, “It is every parent’s nightmare. It’s been horrific. We have gone through a harrowing and stressful time. This has exposed our daughter to experiences she need never have gone through.” They emphasized their commitment to supporting their daughter in rebuilding her sense of security and trust in others, acknowledging that not all adults are to be mistrusted but lamenting the loss of her childhood innocence. “He stole her remaining childhood years,” they added.

During the court proceedings at Derby Crown Court, it was revealed that Gleghorn had targeted the girl, who was described as a quiet individual with low self-esteem and limited confidence. The prosecution, led by Clive Stockwell, detailed how Gleghorn, who knew the girl personally, used flattery and grooming tactics to manipulate her. Stockwell explained that Gleghorn’s approach was calculated, taking advantage of her vulnerability.

According to the prosecutor, Gleghorn had asked the girl on one occasion if he could kiss her. When she refused, he apologized. However, shortly afterward, he told her she was beautiful, which she was likely flattered by. The following days saw further inappropriate advances, including Gleghorn kissing her on the lips, touching her thigh in a car, and asking her if she was all right. The grooming escalated to the point where, in April of that year, he had taken her hand to touch him.

Once the mother discovered the messages, she immediately informed her husband and contacted the police. Gleghorn was arrested and subsequently admitted to the charges, confessing to more offenses than initially revealed during the girl’s video interview with authorities.

In mitigation, Makhan Stoker, representing Gleghorn, highlighted that he had no prior convictions and expressed remorse for his actions. Stoker emphasized that Gleghorn, who pleaded guilty to sexual activity with a child, was genuinely ashamed and showed regret from the outset.

Judge Nigel Godsmark QC sentenced Gleghorn to 16 months in prison. The judge acknowledged the confusion experienced by the young girl, noting that her age made it difficult for her to handle such situations. He praised the vigilance of her parents for preventing further harm. Additionally, Gleghorn was placed on the sex offenders’ register for ten years, with strict restrictions imposed. He was prohibited from working with children, seeking the company of girls under 18, or taking photographs of girls under 16, ensuring he would not pose a threat to minors in the future.