DEREK ASHTON BRINNINGTON CHILD ABUSER SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS IN JAIL

In a case that has shocked the community of Brinnington, Derek Ashton, aged 59, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 14 years after being found guilty of multiple heinous crimes involving child abuse. The conviction was handed down at Minshull Street Crown Court, where it was revealed that Ashton had committed acts of child rape and indecency over a span of nearly two decades, targeting two victims who were both under the age of 16 at the time of their abuse.

Ashton, residing on Foliage Crescent in Brinnington, pleaded guilty to charges of indecent assault and indecency with a child. However, the court also convicted him of two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault on a minor. The severity of his crimes was underscored by the judge, Andrew Lowcock, who did not hold back in his condemnation of Ashton’s actions.

Judge Lowcock described Ashton as a perpetrator who had robbed his victims of their innocence and childhood. He characterized the conduct as “appalling” and beyond belief, emphasizing the disturbing nature of the sexual acts involved, which included sexual touching, oral intercourse, and the use of a vibrator. The judge recounted a witness’s testimony describing the first incident, a description so vivid and distressing that it left a lasting impression on everyone present.

The court heard that after a period of nearly 20 years, Ashton resumed his abusive behavior. The new incidents reportedly began with him touching one of the victims’ breasts, but it was clear from the evidence that his intentions extended far beyond that initial contact. Judge Lowcock condemned Ashton not only as a vile child abuser but also as a “vile bully,” highlighting the cruelty and predatory nature of his actions.

As part of his sentence, Ashton will be registered on the sex offenders register for life. He is also prohibited from working with children or being alone with anyone under the age of 16, in an effort to prevent further harm.

During the sentencing, Ashton’s defense lawyer, Paul McDonald, acknowledged the gravity of the case. He described it as unusual because the jury heard details that Ashton himself did not dispute. McDonald admitted that the offenses had a profound and lasting impact on the victims and that Ashton had taken responsibility for his actions without attempting to shift blame. He expressed concern for Ashton’s future, noting that the defendant, at his age, would face significant consequences from his imprisonment, including the possibility of never seeing the outside world again. McDonald also conveyed Ashton’s greatest fear—that he might die in prison, never having the chance for redemption or rehabilitation.