GEORGE/KENNETH SHACKMAN FROM BURY SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES ON YOUNG GIRLS IN MANCHESTER

In December 2005, a 65-year-old man was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for sexually abusing three young girls, one as young as six. George Kenneth Shackman, also known as Ken, of Manchester Road, Bury, had denied ten counts of indecent assault against these girls during the 1980s in Prestwich and Whitefield. However, a jury found him guilty last month.

Shackman, a married father of two, was employed by the Jewish Lads and Girls Brigade and was also banned from working with children for life. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender.

One of the victims, now 27 years old, had reported Shackman’s abuse in 1988, but police were unable to prosecute at that time. It was only after two other victims came forward years later that authorities had sufficient evidence to take the case to court.

Known in the community as a trusted figure, Shackman undertook work in family homes as a painter and decorator and operated a business that filmed weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and other celebrations.

The court heard that Shackman’s first victim, who was about nine or ten years old, had visited his house and watched a video of ET. During this visit, Shackman exploited the situation and indecently assaulted the young girl. This incident was the first in a series of similar sex attacks.

Judge William Morris sentenced Shackman, stating: “You got the confidence of their parents. You were treated as a family friend. What a gross misuse of trust.”