Key Takeaways
- Gary Claude Wilson was convicted of 33 charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor.
- The victim came forward 20 years after the abuse, during which time Wilson was convicted of abusing two other boys.
- Wilson had a history of using manipulation and coercion to exploit his victims, often using money, cigarettes, and alcohol as incentives.
- The case highlights the importance of believing and supporting victims of sexual abuse, as well as the need for perpetrators to be held accountable for their actions.
Introduction to the Case
The case of Gary Claude Wilson is a disturbing example of how a perpetrator can use manipulation and coercion to exploit their victims. Wilson was convicted of 33 charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor, with the victim coming forward 20 years after the abuse. During this time, Wilson was convicted of abusing two other boys, highlighting a pattern of behavior that is both alarming and tragic.
History of Abuse
Wilson’s history of abuse is a long and disturbing one. In 2011, he was convicted of assaulting an 8-year-old boy known to him, after convincing the parent to let him take the boy to a park. On the way, he indecently assaulted the boy, and at the park, he told the boy they had to leave after only a few minutes of playing. The child immediately disclosed the assault to his mother. In 2017, Wilson was convicted of offending against another boy who was also known to him, after taking the boy on a trip and suggesting that if he ever needed money, he should ask. This sparked at least four incidents during which he instructed the boy to perform sexual acts for money.
The Recent Allegations
In 2022, Wilson was taken into the Manukau police station twice in relation to the recent allegations by the third victim. On the first visit, he was sent home as he had Covid, and on the second, he signed a statement agreeing that he had taken the victim for drives in his car. However, Wilson later gave evidence that he could not remember signing the statement and that he did not take the complainant in his car. When pressed under cross-examination by Crown lawyer Richard Annandale, Wilson said he never should have told the police officer that, and that he had Covid at the time, so he did not know what he was doing.
The Trial and Verdict
The trial of Gary Claude Wilson was a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the victim. The Crown solicitor, Richard Annandale, led the case against Wilson, highlighting the similarities between Wilson’s latest and previous offending. Annandale also pointed out that the victim was reliable and credible, and that Wilson had opportunity, inclination, and a history of similar behavior. Wilson’s lawyer, Chris Muston, argued that his client outrightly denied all allegations, and that the case was one person’s word against another. However, the jury ultimately believed the victim’s evidence, and Wilson was convicted of all 33 charges.
Conclusion and Sentencing
The conviction of Gary Claude Wilson is a significant step towards justice for the victim and their family. The case highlights the importance of believing and supporting victims of sexual abuse, as well as the need for perpetrators to be held accountable for their actions. Wilson will be sentenced in January, and it is hoped that the sentence will reflect the severity of his crimes. The case also serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and awareness in preventing child abuse, and the importance of creating a society that supports and protects its most vulnerable members. As the Whangārei-based reporter, Shannon Pitman, noted, the case is a tragic reminder of the devastating impact of child abuse, and the need for justice and accountability.
