STUART BOWMAN FROM CHANDLER'S FORD SENTENCED TO TEN YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND RAPE

In November 2012, a harrowing case of child sexual abuse and assault culminated in the conviction and sentencing of Stuart Bowman, a man from Chandler's Ford. The case was triggered by a distressing revelation from a young girl during a school lesson, which prompted school staff to alert authorities. The girl, who was so overwhelmed by her emotions that she had to be removed from class by a teaching assistant, confided that she had been subjected to repeated sexual abuse by Bowman.

Following her disclosure, police launched a comprehensive investigation that uncovered disturbing details of Bowman's actions. It was revealed that, suspecting his misconduct had been uncovered, Bowman had taken an overdose of tablets and was subsequently hospitalized. The court proceedings at Southampton Crown Court detailed the charges against him, which included rape and false imprisonment of a woman, charges he had initially denied. However, Bowman ultimately admitted to two counts of causing actual bodily harm and to three sexual offences committed against the young girl.

The young victim provided emotional testimony, revealing that Bowman's abuse had led her to self-harm and contemplate suicide. She expressed a sense of relief and closure, stating, “I am happy now he can’t harm me anymore.” Her words underscored the profound impact of Bowman's actions on her mental health and well-being.

Judge Gary Burrell QC addressed the court, describing Bowman as a dangerous individual and emphasizing the high risk he posed to children. As part of his sentence, Bowman was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life and was subject to a sexual offences prevention order that prohibited him from having unsupervised contact with girls under the age of 16. Additionally, he received a three-year extended sentence, reflecting the severity of his crimes. The judge also noted that Bowman's offending occurred amidst a rising trend of amphetamine use, which may have influenced his behavior.

During mitigation, defense lawyer James Newton-Price acknowledged that Bowman recognized the immorality and repugnant nature of his actions. He also highlighted that Bowman had shown some insight into the harm caused by his conduct. The court heard that Bowman's criminal behavior had resulted in the destruction of his relationship with his children, a consequence he deeply regretted. As Bowman listened, tears welled in his eyes.

Following the sentencing, one of Bowman's victims publicly described him as “an evil monster.” Speaking to the Daily Echo, she expressed relief at his incarceration, viewing it as a crucial step toward healing. “I feel I can move on now knowing he is behind bars and get on with my life with my family,” she said, emphasizing the importance of justice in her journey toward recovery.