THOMAS DORAN EPSOM SEX OFFENDER RECEIVES COURT ORDER TO PROTECT CHILDREN

In January 2012, a disturbing case involving Thomas Doran, a 78-year-old resident of Epsom, came before the South East Surrey Magistrates Court. The court heard detailed accounts of Doran’s inappropriate and potentially harmful behavior towards young girls in his vicinity, leading to the imposition of a strict sexual offences prevention order aimed at safeguarding the community.

According to court proceedings on Friday, January 6, Doran was observed engaging in a series of troubling actions. Witnesses reported that he repeatedly directed obscene gestures at teenage girls passing by his home in Epsom, creating an unsettling environment for local residents. The magistrates were informed that Doran’s misconduct extended beyond mere gestures; he was accused of hiding behind trees in a nearby park with the intent to observe young girls aged 13 and 14. Evidence presented indicated that he took photographs of these minors, blew kisses in their direction, and attempted to lure them over to him, actions that raised serious concerns about his intentions and the safety of the children.

The court documents revealed that these offences had been ongoing since 2010. Further investigation uncovered that in July 2011, police found a plastic ball, a racket, and a bowl of sweets in Doran’s flat, which contributed to the decision to take further action to prevent any future harm. The presence of these items suggested a possible attempt to entice or comfort children, heightening the authorities’ concern.

Thomas Doran, who used a walking stick to enter the courtroom, confirmed his identity and address but did not make any further statements. It was also disclosed that he had a prior caution for sexual assault, dating back to 2002, indicating a history of concerning behavior.

Following a lengthy three-hour hearing, the magistrates approved a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) designed to prevent Doran from engaging in activities that could pose a risk to children. The order explicitly prohibits him from communicating with anyone under the age of 16, whether electronically or face-to-face. It also bans him from loitering in parks or outside schools and from taking photographs or videos of minors. The order aims to restrict his movements and interactions to prevent any potential reoffending.

During the hearing, Doran’s defense solicitor argued that the restrictions should be limited solely to girls. However, the magistrates decided that the order should apply to both boys and girls, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive community protection. Any contact with minors must be pre-approved by police authorities to ensure safety.

Surrey Police issued a statement highlighting their commitment to public protection. A spokesperson explained that the Surrey Police’s Public Protection Unit works closely with local officers to monitor registered sex offenders and enforce the conditions of SOPOs. The statement underscored that offenders who breach these conditions will face legal consequences. The police also collaborate with the Probation Service, Prison Service, and other agencies through the Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) to manage risks posed by offenders released on license or registered as sex offenders.

In their closing remarks, the magistrates acknowledged that Doran is a qualifying offender and that his actions provided reasonable grounds for the court to issue the order. Additionally, Doran was ordered to pay costs amounting to £1,434 as part of the court’s ruling.