BRETT TASKER SENTENCED IN HALIFAX FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN ILLINGWORTH

In June 2008, a disturbing case unfolded in Halifax involving Brett Tasker, a 25-year-old man whose actions led to his imprisonment for a serious crime against a minor. The incident took place on a rainy evening in Illingworth, where Tasker targeted a 13-year-old girl with the intent of exploiting her vulnerability.

According to court records, Tasker, residing on Albert Road in Pellon, Halifax, approached the young girl while they were both sitting on a hill in Illingworth, a location known for its open, rain-soaked terrain. The man had previously met the girl through mutual acquaintances and had been engaging in persistent communication via text messages. Despite warnings from a neighbor who alerted him to the girl’s underage status, Tasker proceeded with his plans.

On May 28 of the previous year, Tasker took the girl out, and during their time together, he offered her vodka and cider, which he deliberately supplied to intoxicate her. The court heard that he exploited her inebriated state to engage in sexual activity. The prosecutor, Paul Cleasby, emphasized that Tasker’s actions were calculated, stating, “He deliberately got her drunk and took advantage of her vulnerability to satisfy his own ends.”

During the incident, the girl, who is now residing in Scotland and cannot be publicly identified due to legal restrictions, initially claimed she was unconscious at the time of the sexual act. However, this claim was later challenged, and a subsequent charge of rape was dropped after an earlier trial was abandoned. The court was told that the sexual encounter took place in an open area, with no protection used, further highlighting the reckless nature of the act.

Tasker’s criminal history includes convictions for robbery, drug offenses, and dangerous driving, indicating a pattern of reckless and unlawful behavior. His defense attorney, Richard Gioserano, argued that Tasker believed the girl was 17 years old, although he admitted that this belief was reckless and not based on concrete evidence. Gioserano emphasized that his client was not seeking to engage with someone under 16, attempting to mitigate the severity of the case.

Judge Jonathan Durham Hall, presiding over the case at Bradford Crown Court, delivered a stern sentence, condemning Tasker’s attitude and lack of remorse. The judge stated, “You still continue to show the attitude that you feel this is not something you have done wrong – but it is. We must protect our young people.” As part of his punishment, Tasker was sentenced to two years in prison and was also placed on the sex offenders’ register, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the need for ongoing monitoring to prevent future offenses.