JAMES MOORE BIDDULPH SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL NEAR BRINDLEY FORD PARK

In July 2018, a distressing incident unfolded near Brindley Ford Park involving a young girl and a man named James Moore, who has a troubling criminal history. The victim, a 13-year-old girl, was cycling along a path close to the park when she was suddenly approached by Moore, who had been seen earlier that day on a motorbike on a bridge across Whitfield Greenway.

According to court reports, the girl was accompanied by a younger child at the time. As she pedaled past Moore, he made an unsolicited comment, asking if she had a boyfriend. The girl responded that she did not, and continued on her way. However, Moore's actions quickly escalated when he physically grabbed her around the waist, attempting to hold her in place. Despite her efforts to free herself, he managed to place his hand down her leggings for a brief period before releasing her.

Following the assault, the girl and her younger companion rode away, visibly shaken by the encounter. She immediately contacted her mother, and her screams for help alerted nearby residents and passersby. The incident left her profoundly traumatized, and she now reports feeling unsafe and fearful even when playing outside, highlighting the severe psychological impact of the attack.

Police were promptly notified, and Moore was arrested the following day. During his police interview, he chose not to comment and denied any sexual contact. Nevertheless, law enforcement officials conducted an identification parade, in which Moore was positively identified by the victim. Forensic analysis of the girl's clothing revealed DNA evidence linking Moore to the assault, specifically on the inside of her leggings.

It was also revealed that Moore, who resides on St John’s Road in Biddulph, had failed to appear in court the previous month, adding to his list of legal issues. The court heard that Moore has a substantial criminal record with 40 previous convictions.

In addition to the sexual assault charges, Moore pleaded guilty to riding a motorbike while disqualified. He was sentenced to 26 months in prison for the sexual assault and was also handed a 12-month driving ban, which will commence once he is released from incarceration. Judge Paul Glenn described the victim’s statement as deeply moving, emphasizing that no girl of her age should feel unsafe or fearful in her own community. The judge acknowledged the significant psychological harm inflicted upon her and expressed concern over her ongoing emotional well-being.