ADRIAN JESSETT FROM STOCKPORT JAILED FOR INDECENT ASSAULT IN MANCHESTER

In a case that has shocked the local community, Adrian Jessett, a well-known figure in Stockport and the founder of the renowned Manchester Boys' Choir, was sentenced to four years in prison on Wednesday after pleading guilty to multiple charges of indecent assault involving a 14-year-old boy.

Jessett, aged 53 and residing in Heaton Moor, Stockport, Greater Manchester, faced a series of serious allegations that dated back to 1996. He admitted to eight sample charges of indecent assault, although he had initially denied one count of rape and three additional offences of indecent assault. The court proceedings revealed the gravity of his actions and the breach of trust involved.

The incident took place at Jessett’s residence and within his vehicle, as detailed during the trial at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court. The court was told that Jessett exploited his position of authority and trust over the young boy, which made his misconduct even more reprehensible. Judge Barry Woodward, presiding over the case, emphasized the severity of the offences, stating that Jessett had abused a position of responsibility and trust that was placed in him by the young victim.

In his sentencing, Judge Woodward ordered Jessett to serve four years for each of the charges, with all sentences to run concurrently. The judge described the offences as extremely serious, highlighting that their seriousness was compounded by the circumstances in which they occurred. He remarked, “One of the most aggravating features about this matter is that, in that position of control, you were trusted and it is difficult to imagine a more serious breach of such trust than that which you committed.”

Supporters and family members of Jessett were present in the courtroom, witnessing the proceedings. The court also imposed a lifelong ban on Jessett working with children and mandated his registration on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, reflecting the gravity of his crimes.

During the trial, Jessett initially claimed that the boy had initiated the sexual nature of their relationship. Prosecutor Maurice Greene stated that Jessett had told police he had “allowed himself to be seduced ‘by the smile and desires’ of the boy,” a claim that was met with condemnation.

In his defense, lawyer Ahmed Nadim explained that Jessett had taken responsibility early on, not in hopes of receiving a lighter sentence but because he recognized his wrongdoing. The case also shed light on Jessett’s prominent role in the musical community; he founded the Manchester Boys’ Choir in 1981, which achieved national recognition by winning awards at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod and the UK National Choral Competition.

Following his arrest on suspicion of indecent assault, Jessett resigned from his position as the choir’s master. The choir, which is affiliated with Manchester City Council’s education department, has been a source of pride for the local area, but his actions have cast a shadow over its reputation. The case underscores the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young people and the devastating impact of breaches of trust by those in positions of authority.