STEVE OXBORROW FROM NEW MILTON SENT TO HOSPITAL AFTER SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN NEW FOREST

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of New Milton and the surrounding New Forest area, Steve Oxborrow, a martial arts instructor, was found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl over an eight-month period. The court proceedings revealed a pattern of manipulation and grooming that exploited the trust placed in him by the victim and her family.

Oxborrow, aged 24 and residing on Wilverley Road in New Milton, was described by Judge Gary Burrell as a dangerous individual, especially concerning the safety of children. The judge emphasized the severity of the case, noting that Oxborrow’s actions demonstrated a significant threat to vulnerable minors. The court heard how Oxborrow engaged in grooming behavior by weaving a narrative filled with frightening and bizarre tales about a world inhabited by black shadows, red scorpions, and other sinister entities. He told the young girl that these shadows and creatures would harm her, but that he would protect her from them. To reinforce his control, Oxborrow provided her with detailed descriptions, including names and numbers associated with these imaginary threats.

Prosecutor Charlie Gabb explained to the jury that whether Oxborrow believed in these stories or not, he used them as a means of exerting power over the girl. This manipulation was a calculated effort to establish dominance and trust, which he then exploited for sexual purposes. The court was told that Oxborrow’s abuse extended beyond psychological manipulation; he engaged in physical acts of a sexual nature, including French kissing the girl and encouraging her to participate in indecent acts. The abuse culminated in full sexual intercourse in New Milton. Additionally, Oxborrow sent the girl obscene photographs of himself via text messages, further demonstrating his predatory behavior.

The criminal activity was uncovered when the girl’s parents discovered her in contact with Oxborrow through her mobile phone. This led to his arrest, during which he admitted to having sexual relations with the girl but denied raping her. Authorities also found photographs of the victim on his computer, confirming the allegations. The case was complicated by Oxborrow’s mental health; Judge Burrell acknowledged that he was suffering from a psychotic illness at the time, which rendered him unable to enter a plea. Nevertheless, the court instructed a jury to determine whether he had committed the acts, rather than declaring him guilty outright.

The jury found Oxborrow guilty of multiple charges, including sexual assault, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and possession of indecent photographs. In light of the findings, Judge Burrell issued an indefinite hospital order under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 1983. This order mandates that Oxborrow remain in a mental health facility until a tribunal approves his discharge, ensuring ongoing supervision and treatment for his mental health issues while protecting the public from potential harm.