GARY KIGGIN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR RAPE IN TYLDESLEY

In October 2008, a disturbing case of prolonged sexual abuse came to light involving Gary Kiggin, a 46-year-old man from Cumberland Avenue in Tyldesley. Kiggin was found guilty of repeatedly raping a young girl over a span of three years, a period during which the victim was only 13 years old when the abuse began.

According to the prosecution led by David Owen, the heinous acts started when the girl was just 13, and Kiggin’s actions escalated over time. The court heard that on one occasion, the girl was compelled to take the morning-after pill, indicating the severity and frequency of the assaults. On another incident, Kiggin physically assaulted her, resulting in a split lip caused by a punch. These details underscored the brutality and ongoing nature of his crimes.

The situation reached a critical point when Kiggin allegedly told the girl he had something special planned for her 16th birthday. This statement prompted the girl to report the abuse to the police, bringing the case to public and judicial attention. The court was informed of the emotional and physical toll inflicted upon the victim, highlighting the gravity of Kiggin’s misconduct.

During the proceedings, Kiggin’s defense attorney, Tom Watson, emphasized that his client had no prior convictions and acknowledged that the victim would carry the burden of these traumatic events for the rest of her life. Despite this, the court found the evidence of his guilt compelling.

Judge Adrian Lyon delivered a stern judgment, describing the case as “most appalling,” emphasizing the sustained nature of the rape and the fact that it was committed over several years for Kiggin’s own sexual gratification. The judge sentenced Kiggin to a term of 12 years in prison. Additionally, Kiggin was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. This order prohibits him from working with children, living alone with children, or visiting minors without supervision.

It was noted that Kiggin pleaded guilty to four counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, which contributed to the court’s decision. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child abuse and the importance of vigilant law enforcement and judicial proceedings to protect vulnerable victims.