JAMES CRITCHLEY SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN KIRKHAM AND WESHAM
A man named James Critchley has been sentenced to serve a significant prison term after being convicted of a serious sexual assault that took place within the confines of a private residence.The incident occurred in the early hours of January 28, 2021, in Wesham, a town near Kirkham, where Critchley, then 31 years old and residing at Meadow Park in Wesham, entered the victim’s home and committed the heinous act of rape.
Following the assault, Critchley attempted to reach out to the victim a week later through a message, in which he expressed remorse and apologized for his actions.
This communication prompted an investigation by local authorities, leading to his arrest on suspicion of the sexual offence.
Subsequently, he was formally charged with the rape of a woman aged 16 or over.
Critchley maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings, pleading not guilty to the charges.
However, after a trial that lasted for a week at Preston Crown Court, the jury found him guilty of the offence.
The court then sentenced him on Monday, October 28, to a term of seven years and eight months in prison, reflecting the gravity of his crime.
Detective Constable Stu Kane, representing the West Division police, publicly commended the victim’s bravery in coming forward and enduring the legal process.
He emphasized the importance of supporting victims of sexual offences and assured the public that law enforcement agencies are committed to thorough investigations and bringing offenders to justice.
Kane stated, “Critchley’s actions that morning were nothing short of abhorrent – he attacked his victim in her own home – the place that she should have felt the safest.
I welcome the sentence handed down on him this week, which reflects the severity of his offence.
Finally, to victims of any sexual offence, please know that we will listen to you, we will investigate, and we will do all we can to bring the person responsible before the courts.”
