Arsonist Nearly Blows Up Police with Reckless Gas Explosion
An arson attack in Mansfield Woodhouse nearly turned deadly after 29-year-old Kyhl Sykes triggered a gas explosion while police tried to arrest him. Officers warned his “utterly selfish and reckless” act could have blown them, himself, and neighbours “to kingdom come.”
Police Called to Arrest Sex Offender
Police arrived at Sykes’s home on 16 February 2023 following reports that he had sexually assaulted a girl. Despite knocking and shouting through the letterbox, Sykes, who was alone inside, refused to answer.
When officers forced entry, they immediately smelled gas. As they stepped inside, Sykes struck a match causing a violent backdraft that blew the kitchen door open. Police quickly evacuated the property and neighbouring homes before arresting Sykes.
Sexual Abuse and Child Exploitation Charges
At Nottingham Crown Court on 10 August, prosecutors revealed Sykes had groomed the victim by building her trust and abusing her. He also secretly photographed the girl, sent her disturbing messages, and searched online for images of young girls.
Police found 20 indecent Category C images of a child on his devices. Sykes pled guilty to arson with recklessness for endangering life, two counts of sexual activity with a child, and making indecent photos of a child.
Six-and-a-Half Years Behind Bars
Defence lawyer Victoria Rose said Sykes suffered mental health issues and a personality disorder but was “extremely remorseful.”
Judge Stuart Rafferty KC slammed Sykes: “You abused this girl and treated her as an object. You groomed her in a wholly improper way.”
Addressing the arson, the judge added: “You struck the match despite knowing the police were coming in. This reckless act could easily have caused a fatal fireball.”
Sykes was sentenced to 4½ years for sexual offences and 2 years consecutively for arson. He also received 3 months concurrent for possession of indecent images, a 10-year restraining order, and will be a lifelong registered sex offender.
Police Praise Outcome, Urge Victims to Speak Out
Detective Inspector Craig Hall praised the sentence: “Sykes is a dangerous sexual offender. I’m pleased he’s behind bars and no longer a threat to children.”
Hall urged victims to report abuse: “No child should suffer sexual abuse. We are here to listen and support.”
Nottinghamshire Police offer a confidential online tool to report sexual offences at Report rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | Nottinghamshire Police. Victims can report anonymously or call 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency).
Survivors can also access independent support services here.
