Leighton Buzzard man jailed over five years after sexually abusing two girls

Gary Roff, 60, of Richmond Road, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday, September 8, after pleading guilty to eight counts of sexual assault.

Roff was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment and was issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for an indefinite period.

He targeted the girls, taking opportunities to indecently assault them on a number of occasions, over a twelve month period.

In December last year, the offences were reported to Bedfordshire Police and further descriptions of abuse were confided by the victims during the investigation.

PC Benjamin Robertson, who led the investigation, said: “This was a particularly sensitive investigation. Roff targeted two young vulnerable victims with his predatory behaviour, and he will now spend time behind bars.

“I would like to recognise the enormous bravery and strength of the two young girls who came forward and told their parents about this abuse.

“They have been supported throughout the process and I hope that today’s sentence can in some way help their path to recovery and allows them to have a sense of justice, and closure so they can now flourish in their lives.

“I would encourage anyone who has been abused, no matter how long ago it happened, to come forward and tell us, and we will do all we can to support you and get justice for you.”

If you have concerns about child sexual abuse or you have been a victim, contact police on 101.

The NSPCC website also has a wealth of information on how to teach children about staying safe from sexual abuse, including the PANTS underwear rule:

P – Privates are private

A – Always remember your body belongs to you

N – No means no

T – Talk about secrets that upset you

S – Speak up, someone can help