GRAHAM EVANS SENTENCED IN PRESTON FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST SCHOOLGIRLS IN BROADGATE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Graham Evans, a 61-year-old resident of Broadgate, Preston, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences committed against two young schoolgirls. The crimes, which spanned several years, were committed more than a decade ago at an address in Preston, where Evans resided.

Evans was convicted at Preston Crown Court last month on a total of 15 charges, including indecent assault and acts of indecency with a child. The court heard that the offences began when the victims were approximately 11 or 12 years old and continued over an extended period, causing significant harm to the young girls involved. The jury reached a majority verdict on the 15 charges, although Evans was cleared of allegations involving three other girls, indicating that the evidence was compelling but not conclusive in those additional cases.

During the trial, the prosecution outlined how Evans had systematically groomed the victims. Evidence revealed that he had allowed the girls to consume alcohol and had displayed adult videos on the television, actions that facilitated the manipulation and exploitation of the young victims. The grooming process was described as insidious, with Evans exploiting his position of trust as an adult in the household.

Philip Hall, representing Evans, emphasized that his client had no prior criminal record and was regarded by friends, colleagues, and relatives as a hardworking and respected individual. Despite this, the court was presented with disturbing evidence of Evans’ conduct.

Judge Stuart Baker, presiding over the case, addressed Evans directly during sentencing. He stated that Evans’ actions had caused “significant harm” to the victims and highlighted the betrayal of trust involved. The judge pointed out that Evans, as the only adult present in the house, held a position of responsibility and trust that he egregiously violated. The judge described Evans’ behavior as persistent and escalating, involving inappropriate conduct that progressed over time.

Further aggravating the case, evidence showed that Evans had provided the victims with modest sums of money in exchange for their participation in sexual activities. The court recognized this as part of a grooming process, designed to manipulate and control the young girls.

In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Baker imposed a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits Evans from having unsupervised contact with children under the age of 16. This measure aims to protect other potential victims and prevent further harm.

In related news, the local community and law enforcement agencies remain vigilant. Recently, the Evening Post reported that in just three months, detectives in Preston had investigated 80 suspected cases of child sexual exploitation. The specialized Deter Team, established 18 months ago to combat grooming and exploitation, has seen a notable increase in referrals, attributed to improved detection methods and increased collaboration with parents. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any concerns. To contact the Deter Team during office hours, individuals can call 01772 209122 or send a text starting with the word Deter to 66247.