ROY RANDALL SENTENCED IN KIRKBY-IN-ASHFIELD FOR CHILD OFFENCES

In October 2003, a serious case involving Roy Randall, a 67-year-old resident of Chartwell Road in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, culminated in his being sentenced to prison for offenses against a young boy. The court heard that Randall, whose criminal history against children dates back to the 1960s, had engaged in a disturbing pattern of grooming and assault that spanned decades.

The incident came to light when Randall approached a 13-year-old boy who was assisting a local builder in the Kirkby-in-Ashfield area. Randall initially asked the boy if he would perform odd jobs at his residence, establishing a seemingly benign connection. Over time, Randall managed to gain the trust of the boy’s parents, who, unaware of Randall’s extensive criminal background, allowed their son to stay overnight at Randall’s home.

It was during these overnight stays in late 2002 that the assaults occurred. The court was informed that Randall assaulted the boy multiple times in his house. The family remained oblivious to Randall’s prior convictions and even began helping him around his household, which further facilitated his access to the vulnerable child.

Prosecutor Jeremy James described the disturbing nature of the incidents, stating, “It was while he was putting the child to bed that the incidents took place, at the defendant’s house. They kissed and cuddled, and Randall admitted he had seen the child naked, but claimed he derived no sexual gratification from this.” James emphasized the vulnerability of the young victim, highlighting how easy it was for Randall to groom him.

Randall’s criminal record was extensive. He was first convicted of indecent assault on a child in 1965, with subsequent convictions throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Despite being on the Sex Offenders’ Register, which prohibited him from approaching or befriending children, Randall continued to breach these restrictions. The court noted that Randall had previously gone on holiday abroad without informing authorities, violating the terms of his registration.

During the hearing, Randall’s defense solicitor, Steven Gosnell, revealed that Randall had contemplated chemical castration as a means to control his urges. Gosnell acknowledged Randall’s awareness of the danger he posed to children and recognized the seriousness of his grooming behavior, not only towards the boy but also involving the boy’s family. He admitted Randall knew he should not have developed a relationship with the family, but emphasized that his principal relationship was with the child.

Randall was sentenced to a total of five years in prison for the indecent assault, with an additional six months for breaching the Sex Offenders’ Register. These sentences are to be served concurrently. Judge Michael Stokes, QC, delivered the verdict, stating, “If he’s still seeking out vulnerable young boys at his age, there’s no possibility he will ever stop.” The judge also ordered Randall to serve at least two-thirds of his sentence and reaffirmed his placement on the Sex Offenders’ Register, underscoring the ongoing risk Randall poses to the community.