PETER CHESMAN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN BOTTESFORD FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL

In February 2019, Peter Chesman, a 77-year-old resident of Lambourne Rise, Bottesford, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for serious sexual offences committed against a young girl. Chesman pleaded guilty to attempted rape, four counts of indecent assault, and one charge of indecency with a child.

Prosecutor Nigel Clive told Grimsby Crown Court that Chesman had sexually abused the girl over several months. "Every time it happened, she would close her eyes and wish it would stop," he stated. "This complainant was vulnerable and there was some targeting of her."

The now adult victim provided a statement indicating that the trauma from the abuse has had a lasting impact. "The terror of the historic abuse has never left me, and I have suffered ongoing flashbacks," she shared. She described her emotional state as having her world "completely blown".

Chesman, a former bricklayer and site agent with no prior criminal record, was described by Recorder Gavin Doig as having caused "damage to the victim lasting a lifetime". Following his release from prison, Chesman will be on extended licence for two years.

The total sentence, including the extended licence, amounts to 14 years, but the custodial term itself is 12 years. Additionally, Chesman is required to register as a sex offender for life.