Predator David Gower Jailed for 15 Years After Horrific Abuse of Two Girls
Groomed and abused girls aged 8 and 12
David Gower, 70, regularly visited the homes of two young girls in Ryde between January 2000 and December 2001. During these visits, he indecently assaulted them. The victims, aged just 8 and 12 at the time, finally came forward in September last year to report the sickening offences.
Disturbing evidence found at Gower’s home
After Gower’s arrest, police uncovered disturbing hand-drawn indecent images of a child hidden in a pile of magazines at his Warwick Street address. This discovery led to an additional charge for possession of prohibited child images.
Offender flouts Sex Offender Register and caught with knife
Appearing at Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court in September, Gower admitted all charges and was ordered to register as a sex offender within 72 hours. He failed to comply, resulting in another charge. Then, on 1 October, police found a knife in his car, leading to yet another offence.
Justice served with 15-year jail sentence
Gower faced Crown Court on 30 November, where he was handed a 15-year prison term plus a two-year extended licence period. PC Mark Thomas praised the victims’ bravery, saying:
“Gower completely shattered the trust of these two young girls, manipulating them into situations where he could abuse them. His actions were utterly appalling and he is now rightfully where he belongs – in prison.”
“I want to commend the bravery of these two victims, who were just children at the time of these awful offences. Because of their courage, a dangerous man is now off the streets.”
