SGary Woolgartring of historic sex offences against a young boy.

Man Jailed for Historic Sex Offences Against Young Boy

Gary Woolgar, 51, a heating engineer from Lancing, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for a string of historic sex offences against a young boy.

Woolgar committed the offences over a period of four years, beginning when the victim was under 13 years old. He denied the charges but was found guilty at trial. Woolgar also admitted to possessing cocaine and cannabis.

Sussex Police Detective Constable Katherine Wilkins stated: "This was a complex investigation that involved close collaboration with partner agencies. Woolgar preyed on the boy, and the abuse has had a lasting impact on him."

"I commend the victim for his bravery in coming forward and reporting what happened to him, and I also thank all the witnesses who provided evidence to ensure Woolgar's conviction. This case demonstrates our commitment to taking reports of sexual offences seriously and providing support to victims through specially-trained officers. We are determined to achieve justice for victims of sexual abuse."

Woolgar was convicted of multiple counts of engaging in penetrative and non-penetrative sexual activity with a boy, as well as two counts of sexual activity with a child and sexual assault by touching a boy under 13. The crimes occurred between 2013 and 2017.

The victim, who remains unidentified for legal reasons, described how the abuse left him frightened and confused, and continues to contribute to his anxiety and stress.

At a hearing on August 3, Woolgar was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment. He will be a registered sex offender for life and subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.