ARTHUR PROCTER FROM BLACKBURN JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST VULNERABLE ADULT
In August 2015, Arthur Procter, a 78-year-old resident of Blackburn, was sentenced to 18 months in prison at Preston Crown Court after admitting to multiple sexual offences committed against a highly vulnerable adult.The court proceedings revealed that Procter had pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual assault by penetration, highlighting the severity of his actions.
The victim, a 33-year-old woman, suffers from significant brain damage, which has resulted in her having a mental age comparable to that of a 13-year-old.
Medical experts testified during the trial that she lacked the mental capacity to give informed consent to any sexual activity, making the offences particularly heinous and morally reprehensible.
The abuse spanned a period of five years, beginning in 2009 and continuing until 2014.
The lengthy duration of the misconduct underscores the profound breach of trust and the devastating impact on the victim’s life.
The court's decision reflects the gravity of the crimes committed by Procter, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse.
Following his conviction, Arthur Procter was subsequently released in May 2016, a development that has raised concerns within the community about the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults in Blackburn.