Former Children’s Home Boss Jailed Again for Abuse on Holiday Trip
Dean Gathercole, already behind bars for abusing teenagers in the 1980s, has been locked up again. The 58-year-old was convicted in February of sexually assaulting a girl in his care during an overnight holiday park trip.
Groomed Victim on “Reward” Trip
Gathercole, then assistant manager at a children’s home in Carlton, used a reward trip for good behaviour to groom and abuse his victim. The horrifying attacks happened first in a swimming pool and later inside a cabin at the park.
The victim, now in her 40s, stayed silent for years. She only came forward after hearing of Gathercole’s previous offences, prompting Nottinghamshire Police to reopen the case.
Four Years Added to 17-Year Sentence
Found guilty of three counts of sexual assault at nottingham/" title="Nottingham" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Nottingham Crown Court, Gathercole was sentenced to four years in prison yesterday. This runs concurrently with a 17-year term he received in 2018 for three rapes and six counts of indecent assault on two other victims.
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
“Gathercole was entrusted to look after vulnerable young people who looked to him for guidance and support. Instead, he groomed and abused for his own gratification,” said Detective Constable Stephen Dunn. “His behaviour was unforgivable. I’m pleased he’s now held accountable.”
“I’m especially proud of the victim’s courage to come forward after all these years,” he added. “We urge anyone affected by such crimes to contact us for help.”
