A married father-of-two who systematically groomed and sexually abused a vulnerable schoolgirl has been handed a 14-year prison sentence in a case that has shocked the community. The predator, who cannot be named for legal reasons, exploited his position as a family friend to target his young victim over an 18-month period.
The Grooming Process
The court heard how the 41-year-old man from Manchester deliberately targeted the girl, plying her with vapes and alcohol to break down her defences. What began as inappropriate attention quickly escalated into systematic sexual abuse, with the offender showing complete disregard for his victim's welfare or his own family responsibilities.
Manchester Crown Court was told the abuse only came to light when the brave victim found the courage to confide in a trusted adult about her ordeal. Police were immediately alerted, leading to the man's arrest and subsequent prosecution.
Court Sentencing and Impact
Judge Sarah Johnston delivered a scathing condemnation of the offender's actions during sentencing, stating he had shown "calculated predatory behaviour" towards a vulnerable child. The 14-year sentence was accompanied by an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and placement on the sex offenders register for life.
In a powerful victim impact statement read to the court, the girl described how the abuse had devastated her childhood and left her struggling with trust and mental health issues. "He took away my innocence and made me feel scared and alone," she told the court.
Police Response
Detective Inspector Emma Banfield, who led the investigation, praised the victim's bravery in coming forward. "This was a horrific case where a vulnerable child was systematically targeted and abused by someone she should have been able to trust," she said.
"The sentence reflects the severity of these crimes and should serve as a warning to others who would prey on children. We encourage anyone who has suffered similar abuse to come forward - you will be believed and supported."
