Man Sent Back to Prison for Stealing Babies’ Dummies
Josh Guilder, a man who had previously been released from prison early, is now back behind bars for his disturbing actions involving babies’ dummies. Guilder, aged 24, was found guilty of stealing soothers from five children in Harlow, Essex, between February and August the previous year. After taking the dummies, Guilder, who was homeless at the time, would retreat to his tent and use the stolen items for himself. In February, he was sentenced to 14 months in prison for five counts of theft, three of common assault, and a public order offence. However, he was released after serving only three months. Shortly after his release, Guilder attempted to purchase used dummies from a new mother and harassed her with inappropriate messages. The woman was left feeling shocked and disturbed by Guilder’s messages, leading her to cut off all contact with him.
Further disturbing behaviour was revealed in court as it was disclosed that Guilder had contacted children online in an attempt to buy used baby products. Additionally, he breached his Sexual Harm Prevention Order by deleting WhatsApp messages. In May this year, Guilder admitted to harassment without violence, breaching his SHPO twice, and one attempted breach. As a result, on October 28, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison by Northampton Crown Court. PC Carl Gardner of Northamptonshire Police expressed relief at Guilder’s re-incarceration, emphasising the strict consequences for those who breach their court orders.
Guilder’s actions had sparked a manhunt leading to his arrest in August the previous year. Parents had reported the thefts of dummies to Essex Police, who apprehended him after releasing an image of the suspect. During his court proceedings, Guilder’s solicitor disclosed that he had never been weaned off dummies and still used them to soothe himself.
The sentencing of Josh Guilder serves as a reminder of the vigilance required in managing individuals with a history of disturbing behaviour. PC Carl Gardner’s statement reiterates the commitment of law enforcement to hold offenders accountable and ensure public safety. Guilder’s case sheds light on the complexities of addressing psychological issues that can lead to troubling actions, highlighting the importance of appropriate interventions and support systems for individuals at risk of reoffending.