A man who raped and sexually abused a young girl has been jailed for 15 years. Lawrence Skrzydlo, 52, built up a trusted relationship with the victim and her family, but used his position to regularly assault and rape her from a young age, police said.
Conviction and Sentencing
Skrzydlo, of Sycamore Street, Northumberland, denied a series of charges but was found guilty by a jury at Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court. He was convicted of two counts of rape and eight counts of indecent assault, according to a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson. At a sentencing hearing on July 3, he was jailed for 15 years.
Victim's Statement
In a statement released by police after the sentencing, the victim said: 'Since making that first phone call to the police in 2021, I have gradually found it easier to talk about my experiences. I believe it is important that justice is done, no matter how much time has passed. What happened to me should never happen to anyone. I have come forward because I believe it is important that the court understands the lasting impact these actions have had on me. This is not my shame to carry. I have done nothing wrong.'
Police Comment
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Peter Smeeton, said Skrzydlo 'took advantage of a young girl' then thought he could escape justice. 'The victim showed immense strength and courage from the moment she came forward and reported the abuse she suffered to us. Her support has been monumental in ensuring Skrzydlo faces the justice he deserves, and I hope this sentencing can provide her with some closure. I would urge anyone who believes they were assaulted, abused or raped to please come forward and report this to our officers - no matter when the offences occurred. Your reports will always be treated incredibly seriously and will help us put a dangerous offender behind bars.'
