JOHN FISHWICK FROM BAMBER BRIDGE AND LEYLAND SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST TEENAGE GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the communities of Bamber Bridge and Leyland, John Fishwick, aged 27, has been sentenced to a total of nine years in prison following his conviction for multiple sexual offences involving underage girls. The sentencing took place at Burnley Crown Court, where Fishwick appeared to face the consequences of his actions that spanned several years.

Fishwick, a resident of Princess Street, was found guilty of one count of rape, three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor under the age of 16, and three counts of inciting a child under 16 to participate in sexual activities. The crimes were committed at an address in Leyland, with the attacks occurring over a period from 2001 to 2006. The jury, after a week-long trial held at Preston Crown Court in May, acquitted Fishwick of all charges related to a third teenage girl involved in the case.

The victims, now aged 15 and 17, bravely testified during the trial, recounting the traumatic experiences they endured. The 15-year-old girl expressed her feelings after the sentencing, stating, “I’m happy he’s been jailed, but he should be spending a lot longer behind bars. If I had not spoken out he would never have come to justice. I’m glad I had the courage to speak up. But this sentence has not given me closure. It’s still in my head and will never end.”

The 17-year-old victim also shared her emotional struggles, revealing that she was terrified throughout the trial. “All the way through the trial I was so scared. And even after he was locked up I thought he was following me. I felt like I couldn’t be myself. But now I know he can’t get to me any more,” she said.

During the proceedings, the victims were subjected to the painful process of reliving their ordeals and facing cross-examination by Fishwick’s legal team. The court also ordered Fishwick to be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and prohibited any contact with individuals under 16. Additionally, he was sentenced to an extra 12 months behind bars for other sex offences committed against children.

Fishwick’s actions have left a lasting impact on the victims and the local communities of Bamber Bridge and Leyland, highlighting the importance of justice and the protection of minors from sexual exploitation and abuse.