In 2012, the Offender Database reported that Gareth Oldknow, then 33, of Willow Cottages, Aspley, Nottinghamshire, was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment. On Friday, 21 September 2012, Oldknow appeared at Nottingham Crown Court for sentencing after being found guilty of 11 counts of serious sexual offences against a minor following a trial.
The investigation established that Oldknow subjected a young girl to “vile” and “horrific” acts, including rape and assault by penetration. The prosecution reported that the abuse was so severe it caused the victim to “lose her childhood.” DC Debbie Wattley, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Unit, emphasised the “devastating” effect the offences had on the child, while also praising her “incredible courage” for remaining strong during a robust cross-examination by the defence.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
Judge Andrew Hamilton emphasised that Oldknow was a “significant danger to young girls.” The court reported that the Digital Investigation Unit extracted “vital” evidence from mobile phones to secure the conviction. The judge emphasised that the defendant’s “despicable” actions required not only a lengthy custodial term but also an extended period of supervision upon his eventual release.
The prosecution emphasised the support provided by the child abuse advice agency Imara, which assisted the victim and her family throughout the trial. For his crimes in Nottingham, the court determined that Oldknow must serve a 15-year concurrent sentence, comprising 15 years for child rape, 10 years for assault by penetration, and varying terms for multiple counts of sexual activity with a child. The judge emphasised that his predatory behaviour was “reprehensible” and necessitated lifelong monitoring.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his crimes in England, Gareth Oldknow was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: 15 years in immediate custody.
- Extended Licence: A five-year extended licence period for public protection.
- Working with Children: A lifetime ban on any employment or voluntary work with children.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements are in effect for life.
- Convictions: Found guilty of two counts of rape of a child under 13, assault by penetration, and eight counts of sexual activity with a child.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Oldknow is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Nottinghamshire Police and the prison estate. Due to the “vicious” nature of his offences and his classification as a significant danger, his management remains under the highest level of scrutiny.
As a lifetime member of the Sex Offenders Register, Oldknow must comply with mandatory notification requirements regarding his residence in Aspley. Authorities state that the combination of a 15-year sentence and a five-year extended licence ensures that he remains under “vicious” legal oversight long after his physical incarceration. Any breach of his registration conditions, his life ban, or his licence terms will result in his immediate arrest and return to Nottingham Crown Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.