PETER GARTSIDE FROM ASKERN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEEN GIRLS IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, Peter Gartside, a 44-year-old man from Askern, South Yorkshire, has been convicted of a series of serious sexual offenses committed over a span of more than a decade. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse involving two teenage girls, with the incidents dating back to 1991 and continuing into their adolescence.

Gartside, who resided on Queens Road in Askern at the time of his offenses, was sentenced to six years in prison by Doncaster Crown Court. In addition to his custodial sentence, he has been ordered to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life, a measure aimed at safeguarding the community from potential future harm. The court heard detailed accounts of his offending, which included multiple counts of indecent assault against both victims.

The two girls, whose ages ranged from 10 to 15 during the period of abuse, were too frightened to confide in their mothers at the time, fearing the repercussions of revealing the abuse. One of the victims, now an adult, was present in court to witness the sentencing of Gartside, who had previously gone into hiding after one of the victims reported his conduct last November. He later surrendered himself to police authorities. The court was also informed that Gartside has faced social ostracism from his own family, and his wife is currently in the process of divorcing him.

During the trial, Gartside admitted to six counts of indecent assault against the older girl and three counts against the younger girl, who remains a teenager. Prosecutor Peter Moulson explained that these charges represented only a portion of the offenses committed over a lengthy period, with both girls suffering repeated sexual interference during their interactions with Gartside.

Defense lawyer Stuart Roberts acknowledged the defendant’s remorse, emphasizing that Gartside had taken responsibility by admitting to the offenses, thereby sparing the victims the ordeal of giving evidence in court. Roberts stated, “There is no denying that these offenses are appalling, but they were not committed through coercion or threats. Gartside is thoroughly ashamed of himself and recognizes that he deserves to be imprisoned. This will be a very difficult time for him due to the nature of his offending.”

Judge Jacqueline Davies addressed Gartside directly, underscoring the gravity of his actions. She remarked, “Young girls suffer greatly as a result of this type of offending. The court must consider the full extent of your misconduct, which warrants a lengthy sentence to protect the public from further harm.” The judge’s comments reinforced the seriousness with which the court viewed Gartside’s crimes, emphasizing the importance of community safety and justice for the victims.