West Yorkshire Police have arrested three individuals in their eighties as part of a major investigation into historic child sexual abuse spanning several decades.
Details of the Arrests and Allegations
The force confirmed that two men aged 83 and 86 and one woman aged 83 were detained at addresses in Cumbria and Kent on Tuesday. The arrests are connected to an inquiry into reports of cruelty and sexual abuse made by eight victims. The alleged offences are said to have occurred when the victims were aged between five and 17 years old during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.
The investigation focuses on two specific locations where the children were housed: the Burley in Wharfedale Assessment Centre in Station Road and the Brunswick Road Children's care home. Both facilities, which were under local authority control, have since closed down.
Police Appeal and Ongoing Investigation
All three suspects have been released on bail while detectives continue their inquiries. Detective Chief Inspector Vicky Greenbank of Bradford District Police emphasised the force's commitment to tackling such crimes. "Protecting and safeguarding children is a top priority for West Yorkshire Police," she stated.
"Child sexual abuse and exploitation is an abhorrent crime and one which affects some of the most vulnerable people in our society. We would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, no matter where or when it took place, to report it to the police. You will be listened to and you will be believed."
The police are actively appealing for anyone with information about incidents at these former care homes to come forward. Information can be provided by calling 101 or using the live chat feature on the West Yorkshire Police website, quoting reference number 13170106973.
