Adrian Keeling KC prosecuted Duane Gardner who assaulted 11 strangers in Stoke on Trent in a 3 hour spree.
Mr Keeling KC said in his closing statement: “He committed 11 nasty, serious sexual offences on complete strangers. All took place in broad daylight. Some of the victims had never been subject to such an attack before, and have been left shocked and traumatised. Others were reminded of past traumas they’ve suffered. This is the inevitable result of the random nature of these offences. He was undeterred by his victim’s feelings. He moved on from victim to victim, hoping to achieve more success in his next attack. There was no remorse or concern for their wellbeing.”
Judge Sally Hancox sentenced Gardner to 21 years behind bars with a four-year extended licence period. She said: “All of these women were complete strangers to you and each other prior to these attacks. They were going about their day and minding their own business. Shopping, working, enjoying a walk, visiting loved ones at the cemetery. This was a concerted campaign of sexual assault. Those who have written about these attacks have done so in heart-breaking detail. Everyone who read their statements did so with a dignity and grace that flies in the face of your despicable actions. In my judgement, there is no doubt you will pose a serious risk to any community should you be released. Your manner of offending is a cause for serious concern.”
Read more about the case in the links below.
https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/predator-who-targeted-11-women-10167117
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/pervert-laughed-smiled-attacked-11-31603113
