DAVID BLACKBURN FROM KIRKBY SENTENCED TO 19 YEARS FOR ABUSE OF TWO GIRLS

In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the community of Kirkby, David Blackburn has been sentenced to a total of 19 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes involving two young girls. The offences span over three decades, beginning when Blackburn was a teenage boy and continuing well into his adulthood, even after he married and became a father.

Blackburn, who resides in Quarry Green, Northwood, Kirkby, targeted two girls, initially when they were just nine and seven years old. His predatory actions included threats to silence his victims, warning them not to disclose the abuse they endured. The first victim, now an adult, tearfully recounted her ordeal during the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, describing how Blackburn sexually assaulted her, performed sex acts, exposed himself, and showed her explicit images from a book. Despite her pleas for him to stop, Blackburn responded with laughter, mocking her distress.

The prosecution, led by Martine Snowdon, detailed that Blackburn was responsible for five counts of indecent assault and one count of indecency with a child concerning this first victim, with the abuse occurring when she was between nine and thirteen years old. The court heard that Blackburn's misconduct included touching her sexually, performing sexual acts on her, and coercing her into touching him. The victim's emotional testimony highlighted the lasting impact of these events.

Blackburn's crimes against the second girl were even more extensive. The court found him guilty of 15 counts of indecent assault, two counts of indecency with a child, and one count of rape. The second victim, who was only seven when the abuse began, described how Blackburn sexually molested her, performed sex acts on her, and once made her perform a sex act on him when she was 12. She also recounted an incident where Blackburn lay on top of her, which was interrupted before he could assault her further, and a rape that occurred when she was 14. The victim reported the rape in 1990 but later retracted her statement under pressure.

In her victim statement, she revealed that she now takes antidepressants and medication for anxiety, and that the trauma continues to affect her daily life. She described persistent nightmares, suicidal thoughts, and the ongoing mental toll of her experiences. Only after the conclusion of the trial has she been able to access counseling, which she credits with helping her begin to heal.

Judge Recorder Ian Harris, who presided over the case, reviewed a pre-sentence report from the Probation Service. The report indicated that Blackburn showed no remorse and maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. The judge noted that Blackburn was assessed as a high risk for further sexual offences and believed he was aware that his actions were wrong. Describing Blackburn as an “offender of particular concern,” the judge sentenced him to 19 years in prison, with an extended license period of one year.

Due to the nature of the sentences, Blackburn will serve approximately 11 and a half years before he becomes eligible for parole. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities after his release from custody.