Oxford News
Bicester paedophile jailed for sexual assault of children
Oliver Cosh, of Wensum Crescent in Bicester, was sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on Friday, June 26, for six counts of sexual assault of a child under 13 by touching and one count of causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.
The 36-year-old was found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls between August 2019 and January 2020 after a week-long trial at the same court in April.
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The jury heard how he inappropriately touched the girls and threatened them to conceal what he’d done, and heard from the girls’ mother when she was questioned by the prosecution.
She told the court: “His behaviour, I found it difficult and awkward. He was very sexually charged.
“His sexual innuendoes were directed towards children.”
The woman described the impact the alleged offences had on her younger daughter.
She said: “She became a real recluse. She didn’t want anyone to get her.
“She became a very frightened little girl. Those demons are still with her. She had a complete breakdown over Mr Cosh.
“She was a changed child, she was absolutely distraught.”
On the impact on her older daughter, she said: “Her behaviour was so disturbing. She hated herself.”
Cosh was found guilty of all counts and remanded in custody until his sentencing.
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Investigating officer detective constable James Boden, of Thames Valley Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “Oliver Peter Cosh is a predatory offender whose actions represent a shocking exploitation of two vulnerable children under the age of 13.
“He used threats of violence to suppress their disclosures, further compounding the seriousness of his offences.
“Despite the evidence placed before the court, Cosh failed to take any responsibility for his actions.
“However, the strength of the case ensured he was convicted of seven child sexual offences.
“Today’s custodial sentence reflects both the severity of his crimes and the lasting harm caused to the victims.
“I would like to commend both victims for the immense courage and resilience they have shown throughout this investigation and court process.
“Their bravery has been vital in securing justice.
“While no sentence can undo the harm caused, it is hoped that today’s outcome provides some measure of closure and marks the beginning of their continued recovery.
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“I would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, regardless of when it occurred, to come forward.
“You will be listened to, supported, and we will do everything possible to bring offenders to justice.”
Cosh was sentenced to nine years in jail and will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Thames Valley Police put out an alert regarding ‘concerns’ in Didcot play parks today, Sunday, June 28.
They warned that a ‘small number of reports online and on Facebook’ have been made about ‘suspicious behaviour’ in the area.
This involved individuals who have been ‘seen taking photographs where young people are present’ around local parks.
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A statement from Thames Valley Police said: “At this time, there is no indication of any immediate risk or cause for concern.
“However, we would like to make the community aware and encourage anyone who notices anything unusual or has relevant information to contact us online or via 101.
“This helps us build a clearer picture and respond appropriately where needed.
“We appreciate the vigilance and awareness shown by members of the public. If you do have any concerns, please report them to us so that we can assess and take any necessary action.”
The golf clubs were stolen from the boot of a vehicle parked at a car park in Didcot on Saturday, June 27, between 11am and 12.15pm.
Thames Valley Police said there was no damage to the car and it’s believed the boot was ‘unintentionally opened’, allowing access to the valuable clubs.
READ MORE: Didcot: ‘Suspicious’ people spotted taking pictures of kids in parks
Shortly afterwards, police said, an anonymous post on Facebook on the Didcot community page showed ‘what appeared to be new-looking golf clubs’ left at Franklin Gardens.
The clubs were gone by the time officers attended the location.
A spokesperson for the police said: “We believe these incidents may be linked, and we are keen to establish what has happened to the clubs so we can return them to their rightful owner.”
Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the car park, saw the golf clubs at Franklin Gardens or has information about their whereabouts – including anyone who may have retrieved them after seeing the Facebook post – is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 43260324867.
Thames Valley Police said two teenage boys, around 14 years old, were seen throwing stones at a house on The Causeway in Steventon at about 5.40pm on Saturday, June 13.
The teens were wearing all black and caused damage to the windows of a home in the ‘criminal damage’ incident.
READ MORE: Didcot: ‘Suspicious’ people spotted taking pictures of kids in parks
A spokesperson said: “The Neighbourhood Team are actively investigating and will seek to compensate the victim for the damage caused.
“We believe this incident was witnessed locally, and we are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“If you can help, please contact 101, report online using reference 43260296608, or submit information directly via the Thames Valley Police portal.
“If you are one of the boys involved, or a parent/guardian, we ask that you reach out to us and do the right thing.
“Your support helps us protect and support our community.”
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