PAUL OAKES SHILDON CHILD ABDUCTION HORROR IN COUNTY DURHAM

In a disturbing incident that took place in Shildon, County Durham, a man named Paul Oakes was convicted of child abduction after an alarming encounter with an 11-year-old boy outside his school. The court proceedings revealed that Oakes, aged 44, had approached the young student in a manner that caused significant concern among witnesses and school staff alike.

The incident occurred in March, when Oakes allegedly grabbed the boy outside the school premises. According to court reports, he then led the frightened child along a nearby alley, with his arms around the boy’s shoulders, in a manner that appeared overly familiar and inappropriate. The situation escalated when Oakes pinned the boy against a wall and attempted to kiss him on his cheeks, an act that was witnessed by a vigilant teacher.

Lesley Kirkup, the prosecutor, detailed that a concerned teacher observed Oakes’s behavior and became alarmed by his overly tactile approach. She noted that Oakes was “very touchy-feely,” and the boy’s body language clearly indicated discomfort. The teacher intervened, challenging Oakes, who then allowed the boy to walk away unimpeded. The teacher’s quick response was praised by the court, as her intervention prevented further potential harm.

During the court hearing, it was revealed that Oakes had a history of alcohol abuse, which he claimed was the reason for his actions. His defense attorney, David Lamb, described him as “the village drunk,” emphasizing that Oakes had consumed a significant amount of alcohol on the day of the incident. Lamb also stated that Oakes was unable to fully comprehend his behavior due to his intoxication and expressed remorse for his actions.

The court was informed that Oakes had previously been subject to restraining orders and sexual offences prevention orders, indicating a history of concerning behavior. Despite this, the judge, Christopher Prince, clarified that there was a clear inference of a sexual element to the offence, although this was not explicitly part of the sentencing. The judge emphasized that Oakes’s actions were serious and that his intoxication did not mitigate the gravity of his conduct.

Pre-sentence reports indicated that there was no evidence suggesting a sexual preference for children, but the incident had caused significant distress to the victim. The young boy had been subjected to bullying from peers following the event, adding to the emotional toll of the ordeal.

Oakes was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison for his actions. The judge made it clear that Oakes did not voluntarily cease his behavior and commended the teacher for her swift intervention. Oakes’s address was listed as Freville Street, Shildon, and the court proceedings highlighted the ongoing concerns about his conduct and the safety of children in the community.