ALLEN DEARDEN SENTENCED IN DARWEN FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON SCHOOLGIRL

In a significant case that has resonated within the Darwen community, a local man named Allen Dearden has been sentenced to five years in prison for a series of serious sexual offenses committed against a young girl. The incident, which took place over a period spanning from September 1981 to January 1983, involved multiple acts of abuse that left a lasting impact on the victim.

Preston Crown Court heard that Dearden, aged 67 and residing on Newton Street in Darwen, pleaded guilty to five historic charges related to the assault of the schoolgirl, who was under the age of 14 at the time. The court was informed that the offenses included oral rapes, inappropriate touching, and attempted rapes, all perpetrated by Dearden during the early 1980s.

According to police reports, the victim chose to remain silent about the abuse for many years, fearing that disclosure would lead to her life being torn apart. It was only last year that she felt compelled to come forward, revealing to officers that her life had been profoundly affected and 'ruined' by the years of suffering inflicted upon her.

Judge Robert Altham delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes committed by Dearden. In addition to the prison term, the judge imposed a lifelong ban on Dearden working with children, a requirement that he sign the sex offenders’ register for the rest of his life, and the imposition of an indeterminate sexual offences protection order. This order mandates that Dearden must regularly inform police of his whereabouts upon release from prison, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Detective Inspector Claire Holbrook, who led the investigation, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “This was a fantastic result for the victim who has spent the last 30 years trying to manage the psychological effects this has had on her. A good proportion of the work my team focuses on are historic allegations. Whilst I am aware that some victims find the courage to come forward immediately, others find it more difficult for a multitude of reasons. These victims can be reassured that we have a high conviction rate and that they will be supported throughout. The passing of time does not in any way diminish the severity or impact of these acts. Victims who do come forward can take pride in helping prevent any other child from suffering at the hands of the same offender.”