In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Paul Wood, 60, was sentenced to 21 years in prison for the systematic sexual abuse of three pre-teen girls. On appearing for trial in March 2026, the defendant—of Wendover Rise, Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire—was found guilty of 17 sexual offences following an investigation into historical abuse dating back to the late 1990s. It was reported that Wood was arrested in 2023 after the survivors came forward to report his crimes, leading to a trial where a jury convicted him on all counts.
The investigation established the predatory nature of Wood’s long-term conduct. Derbyshire Constabulary reported that Wood’s crimes included five counts of rape and ten counts of sexual touching against girls under the age of 13. The prosecution reported that Wood also attempted the rape of a child and committed a further sexual assault. The investigation established that despite Wood’s denials throughout the legal process, the strength of the evidence provided by the survivors ensured he was held publicly accountable for his actions over several decades.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Wood is a dangerous paedophile who exploited the vulnerability of children. Although Wood resided in Cleethorpes, the investigation was led by Derbyshire officers, highlighting the reach of his offending across county lines. The investigation established that the survivors showed great courage in disclosing abuse that had been kept secret for more than 20 years, with the police stating that the age of the offences was no barrier to seeking justice.
Detective Constable Natalie Jones, the officer in the case, noted that Wood belongs behind bars and expressed hope that the three young women could now move forward with their lives. For his actions in Cleethorpes and beyond, Wood was handed a 21-year custodial sentence on March 10, 2026. The judge noted the severity of the 17 proven offences, ordering an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) to ensure Wood is never again in a position to target children.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of Paul Wood is as follows:
- Custodial Sentence: 21 years (Sentenced March 10, 2026).
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements are active for life.
- SHPO Status: Subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
- Judicial Oversight: Convicted by a jury and sentenced following a Derbyshire Constabulary investigation.
- Criminal Record: Rape of a girl under 13 (5 counts); Assault by touching a girl under 13 (10 counts); Attempted rape of a girl under 13; Sexual assault.
- Origin: Wendover Rise, Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Wood is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) at the highest level of scrutiny. Due to the nature of his conduct in Cleethorpes, which involved decades of physical abuse and multiple victims, his management is a maximum priority for the Public Protection Unit. Authorities state that his 21-year sentence and indefinite SHPO are essential safeguards to protect the public, ensuring that should he ever be released, his movements and internet access will be strictly restricted for the remainder of his life.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register for life, Wood must comply with all notification requirements regarding his identity and residence. Authorities state that his history of “dangerous” predatory behaviour in Lincolnshire necessitates permanent vigilance by the police and probation services. Any future attempt to approach a minor, travel without authorisation, or fail to disclose his status to the authorities will result in immediate arrest and a return to the prison system.
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