Dangerous Colchester sex offender jailed for attacking 13-year-old girl
DNA evidence linked Dominic Boultwood to the assault
A Colchester man has been sentenced to an extended 21-year term after sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl, following his irrefutable connection to the crime through DNA evidence.
Dominic Boultwood, aged 28, was already a convicted sex offender when he attacked the girl at Bourne Valley Nature Reserve near Mersea Road, Colchester, on 9th May 2024.
He lured the victim to the wooded area and engaged in a sexualised conversation before pulling her to the ground and assaulting her.
Boultwood warned the girl not to report him to the police, but she later confided in a friend who alerted authorities.
Crucial DNA evidence linked Boultwood to the crime, resulting in his arrest on 15th May.
Despite initially denying the offence, forensic evidence led to a jury conviction for sexual assault, assault by penetration, and making indecent images of children.
The trial was held in March at Ipswich Crown Court, with Boultwood then appearing at Woolwich Crown Court on 25th February.
Judge Martyn Levett commended the investigative team for their focused attention and hard work in gathering evidence.
Boultwood received a 13-year prison sentence with an additional eight years on extended licence, along with indefinite notification requirements and a renewed Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
The victim's mother expressed gratitude to the police, urging others to speak out promptly.
Detective Inspector James Holmes highlighted Boultwood's disregard for legal restrictions, noting the risk he posed to young girls.
Holmes commended the victim's patience and bravery throughout the investigation and assured support for anyone experiencing similar crimes in Essex.
He encouraged those affected to contact police or an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor for assistance.