GARETH BENTLEY FROM FARNWORTH GETS SENTENCE CUT AFTER RAPE OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN BOLTON

In a recent development at Bolton Crown Court, Gareth Bentley, a 22-year-old man from Farnworth, faced a significant reduction in his prison sentence following a review by the presiding judge, Judge Timothy Clayson. Originally sentenced to four years in prison for the heinous crime, Bentley's term has now been shortened to two years and eight months.

Gareth Bentley appeared before the court yesterday, where the judge announced the revised sentence. During the proceedings, Bentley displayed a smile and made gestures towards his family members in the courtroom as he was led away from the dock, indicating a possible sense of relief or satisfaction with the outcome.

The crime in question took place on January 9 of this year in Farnworth. Bentley approached a 12-year-old girl outside Priceright Carpets on King Street. He allegedly persuaded her to accompany him to a private location, where he then forcibly engaged in sexual activity with her. The young girl reported the assault to a teacher three days after the incident, which led to the police being involved and Bentley’s subsequent arrest.

In court, it was revealed that Bentley received credit for his guilty plea, which likely contributed to the sentence reduction. Additionally, he expressed remorse for his actions through a letter submitted to the court. Bentley has already served 189 days of his sentence, which was taken into account during the sentencing review.

The case has garnered significant attention due to the serious nature of the offense and the fact that the offender is from Farnworth, a town in Greater Manchester. The court’s decision to reduce the sentence has sparked discussions about sentencing policies and the factors considered in such cases.