THOMAS CARNELL FROM N HYKEHAM SENT TO YOUNG OFFENDERS' INSTITUTION AFTER SEX ATTACK IN GAINESBOROUGH

In November 2004, a disturbing case involving a young man from Lincolnshire captured public attention when he was convicted of a serious sexual assault. Thomas Carnell, aged 19 and residing on Hutson Drive in North Hykeham, was found guilty of indecently assaulting an eight-year-old girl. The court proceedings revealed that Carnell's actions took place in Gainsborough during July of that year.

According to the evidence presented at Lincoln Crown Court, Carnell lured the young girl into a house in Gainsborough under false pretenses. Once inside, he took her upstairs, where he blindfolded her, and committed the assault. The court was informed that Carnell was working as a painter and decorator at the time, and the incident occurred within the house where he was employed.

The judge presiding over the case, Peter Clark, emphasized the severity of the crime and the need for appropriate punishment. He stated that a custodial sentence was the only suitable response to such an attack, reflecting the gravity of the offense and the protection of the community.

As part of his sentence, Thomas Carnell was not only sent to a young offenders' institution but was also placed on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years. This measure aims to monitor and prevent any potential future offenses, underscoring the seriousness with which the justice system treats crimes of this nature.