FRANCIS LYNAM SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN BLACKPOOL AND BOLTON

In a case that has shocked the communities of Bolton and Blackpool, a man named Francis Lynam has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault against a teenage girl. The conviction was secured following a trial at Bolton Crown Court, where the court heard disturbing details of the abuse that took place over several months.

Born on November 12, 1958, Lynam, who was at the time of sentencing without a fixed address, was previously a resident of Bolton but was known to have been living on Egerton Road in Blackpool. His relationship with the victim, a girl who was just 17 years old at the time, involved frequent meetings in Bolton town centre, where he would meet her and then walk her home. These seemingly innocent encounters gradually turned into a pattern of abuse that would have lasting impacts on the young girl.

The abuse occurred between September 2010 and March 2011, during which Lynam exploited the trust placed in him by the victim. As someone who was supposed to be looking after her, he took her to secluded areas in Bolton and subjected her to repeated acts of sexual violence. The court heard that Lynam’s actions were not isolated incidents but part of a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior.

The victim, demonstrating remarkable courage, eventually confided in a friend about what had happened. This disclosure prompted the police to become involved, leading to Lynam’s arrest. The investigation was led by Detective Constable Phil Halliwell, who expressed his condemnation of Lynam’s actions. He stated, “This man was entrusted with being responsible for this vulnerable victim; he hideously abused that trust.”

Detective Halliwell also paid tribute to the victim’s bravery, emphasizing the importance of victims coming forward to report sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the incidents. He reassured the public that Greater Manchester Police (GMP) takes all reports of sexual violence seriously and that investigations into historic abuse are conducted with sensitivity by specially trained officers.

Authorities have urged anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault to contact GMP at 101 or call 999 in emergencies. The police have dedicated units equipped to support victims through the criminal justice process. Additionally, St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester offers comprehensive forensic, medical, and counseling services to victims across Greater Manchester. The centre operates 24 hours a day and accepts self-referrals or reports through police channels, ensuring victims receive the necessary support and care during this difficult time.