Predator who lured girl to Colchester nature reserve jailed

A 28-year-old man, Dominic Boultwood, has been sentenced to prison for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl after luring her into the woods at Bourne Valley Nature Reserve in Colchester, Essex. The incident took place on 9 May 2024, where Boultwood pulled the young victim to the ground and attacked her, later warning her not to tell anyone about what happened.

Boultwood was already a convicted sex offender before this offence, and following the attack, Essex Police linked his DNA to the victim’s clothing. During questioning, he attempted to explain the DNA presence by claiming he had been sleeping and urinating in the area, denying any direct contact with a child in violation of existing court orders. However, evidence against him was strong, including the discovery of numerous indecent images of children aged between three and 13 on his phone.

In March 2025, Boultwood was found guilty at Ipswich Crown Court of sexual assault, assault by penetration, and possession of indecent images. At a later sentencing hearing at Woolwich Crown Court, he received 13 years in prison along with an additional eight years on license. The court also renewed a sexual harm prevention order against him, and the victim was granted a restraining order for her protection.

Judge Martyn Levett condemned Boultwood’s actions, stating that he had manipulated a very young girl in a place where children should feel safe. Essex Police Detective Inspector James Holmes described Boultwood as a dangerous predator who showed a blatant disregard for the law and for his victim despite prior convictions and restrictions. The victim’s mother encouraged others to speak out, emphasizing that early reporting helps police bring offenders to justice and offers hope for closure. The investigation team was formally commended by Judge Levett for their work in securing the conviction

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