A predator deemed “dangerous” who sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl was captured by the authorities after DNA evidence linked him to the crime.
Dominic Boultwood, aged 28, specifically targeted the young victim by enticing her to a wooded section of Bourne Valley Nature Reserve, situated near Mersea Road in Colchester, on May 9, 2024. Essex Police reported that he engaged her in a sexually suggestive conversation, verified her age, and then proceeded with the assault.
Boultwood, who had a prior conviction for a separate sexual assault in 2015, received a 21-year extended sentence – comprising 13 years in prison followed by eight years under extended license – at Woolwich Crown Court on the present date.
During the assault, he repeatedly cautioned the girl against reporting him or disclosing the incident to anyone. Despite the victim’s distress and plea to leave, Boultwood instructed her to wait for five minutes as he walked away.
Upon returning home, the girl confided in a friend, leading to police involvement. An inquiry was initiated, and specialized assistance was provided to support the victim.
While various pieces of evidence pointed towards Boultwood, it was the DNA recovered from the victim’s clothing that definitively connected him to the crime.
Authorities apprehended Boultwood on May 15, searched his residence, and seized a quantity of cannabis. During police interrogation, he falsely claimed to have been fishing at the nature reserve and denied interacting with any child, acknowledging that such actions would have violated court orders.
In 2015, Boultwood was sentenced to seven years – four in custody and three under license – for a distinct sexual assault. He was subjected to notification obligations and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, permitting the installation of monitoring software on his mobile device.
When presented with forensic evidence during a subsequent interview, Boultwood suggested that his DNA could have been present on the girl’s clothing due to his frequent sleeping and urinating in the area. He faced charges of sexual assault and assault by penetration, resulting in his remand in custody.
The investigation prompted a commendation from a Crown Court judge for the Essex Police team responsible for bringing Boultwood to justice. Judge Martyn Levett emphasized the need for dedicated effort and diligence by the individuals involved.
During a trial at Ipswich Crown Court in March of the previous year, Boultwood was also accused of producing indecent images of children following an examination of his mobile phone. The discovery of several images depicting children aged between three and 13 led to his conviction on all three charges.
In the recent sentencing, Boultwood was informed that he would remain under indefinite notification obligations and a renewed Sexual Harm Prevention Order to deter and detect potential future offenses. Additionally, a lifelong restraining order was imposed.
Judge Levett remarked that Boultwood had manipulated a vulnerable young girl to fulfill his own desires, highlighting the importance of children feeling secure in public spaces like nature reserves.
The victim’s mother expressed gratitude towards the officers involved, urging others to report such incidents promptly to facilitate swift resolution and closure.
Detective Inspector James Holmes, from the Serious Crime Directorate, described Boultwood as a dangerous sexual predator who disregarded previous convictions and restrictions, showing no remorse for his actions. He praised the victim for her courage and cooperation throughout the investigation.
Det Insp Holmes reassured victims of sexual offenses in Essex that their voices would be heard, emphasizing the availability of specialized officers dedicated to investigating such cases. He encouraged individuals to reach out for support, even if they were not yet ready to speak to the police.
Victims were reminded of the services provided by Synergy Essex, offering confidential assistance to those affected by sexual abuse in Essex, whether recent or historical cases.