In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that prolific serial predators Darren Gibson, 56, and his sister Rebecca Kirton, 41, were handed further prison sentences totalling 20 years for the systematic abuse of more than 15 schoolgirls. On appearing at Leeds Crown Court on Thursday, 19 March 2026, Gibson, formerly of Holdforth Close, New Wortley, was sentenced to an additional 12 years to run consecutively to his existing 24-year term. Kirton received a consecutive eight-year sentence, including six months for her refusal to attend the hearing. It was reported that the pair used Gibson’s role as a children’s party DJ to groom victims between 1997 and 2005.
The investigation established the predatory and coordinated nature of the siblings’ conduct. West Yorkshire Police reported that after their original convictions were publicised, 12 new victims came forward to report attacks. The prosecution reported that the duo’s “modus operandi” involved Kirton befriending children at discos and inviting them to their shared home, where Gibson would ply them with alcohol and, in at least one instance, ecstasy, before carrying out rapes and sexual assaults.
Judicial Findings and Victim Impact
The court reported that the impact on the survivors has been life-long and devastating. Leeds Crown Court heard victim impact statements describing Gibson as a “monster” who “stole childhood and teenage years.” The investigation established that Gibson would “laugh and joke” with youngsters in his DJ booth to appear “cool,” while Kirton actively participated in the abuse and helped facilitate the grooming process. One victim testified that she had carried the secret of her rape for over 20 years before finding the strength to speak out.
Judge Mushtaq Khokhar noted that it was rare to encounter an offender as prolific as Gibson. For his actions in New Wortley and across Leeds, Gibson admitted to dozens of offences including rape. The judge noted that the victims were “predators of the worst kind” and that the trauma they inflicted would likely never be forgotten by those who suffered under their “relentless” campaign of abuse.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of Darren Gibson and Rebecca Kirton is as follows:
- Darren Gibson Sentence: 36 years total (24 years original + 12 years consecutive).
- Rebecca Kirton Sentence: 20 years total (12 years original + 8 years consecutive).
- Sex Offenders Register: Both are on the notification requirements for life.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Leeds Crown Court following a West Yorkshire Police investigation.
- Criminal Record: Multiple counts of rape; Indecent assault; Supplying a controlled drug (Ecstasy).
- Origin: Holdforth Close, New Wortley, Leeds, West Yorkshire.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Both offenders are managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) at the highest level of scrutiny within the prison estate. Due to the nature of their conduct in Leeds, which involved targeting children at public events and using drugs to facilitate rape, their management is a maximum priority for the Public Protection Unit. Authorities state that because of the “prolific” nature of their offending, they will remain subject to the most restrictive licensing conditions should they ever be considered for parole in the distant future.
As members of the Sex Offenders Register for life, Gibson and Kirton must comply with all notification requirements regarding their identity. Authorities state that their history of predatory grooming in West Yorkshire necessitates permanent vigilance. The survivors expressed hope that Gibson is never released, with one stating she believes he will always be a danger to young girls. Any future attempt by either sibling to contact victims or bypass digital monitoring will result in immediate intervention by the authorities.
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.