JOHN GRIMSHAW OF GREAT HARWOOD SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR ABUSE OF VULNERABLE GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Great Harwood, John Grimshaw, aged 59, has been handed down a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of heinous crimes involving a young girl. The court proceedings revealed that Grimshaw, residing on All Springs Drive in Great Harwood, was found guilty of multiple serious offenses, including rape, attempted rape, and numerous counts of indecent assault against a girl who was just five years old when the abuse began.

According to police reports, Grimshaw's criminal conduct spanned several years, with the abuse continuing until the victim reached the age of 11. The girl, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, was subjected to a series of traumatic experiences at an address in Accrington, where the abuse was carried out. The victim finally ceased to be subjected to Grimshaw’s abuse when she left the address in 2002, at the age of 11.

Following a detailed investigation initiated after the victim came forward in April of the previous year, authorities gathered substantial evidence that led to Grimshaw’s trial. The jury found him guilty of one count of rape, two counts of attempted rape, and eleven counts of indecent assault on a female. Throughout the proceedings, Grimshaw maintained his innocence, denying all allegations against him.

Detective Constable Sarah Hargreaves emphasized the severity of the case, stating, “Grimshaw is a dangerous sex offender who poses a significant risk to children. These were despicable offences committed against a vulnerable little girl. This ordeal was made all the more sinister by Grimshaw’s insistence of innocence, which forced his victim to give evidence before a jury. I wholeheartedly commend her bravery in coming forward and reporting this to the police. This case demonstrates that the passage of time is not a barrier to justice.”

As a result of his conviction, Grimshaw was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the rape. Additionally, he received a concurrent sentence of 13 years for each of the attempted rape charges. The court also imposed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, requiring him to sign the Sexual Offenders Register indefinitely. Furthermore, Grimshaw’s parole has been extended by an additional year. A forfeiture and destruction order was issued for his computer equipment, reflecting the authorities’ efforts to prevent further harm.

Overall, this case underscores the importance of vigilance and the ongoing pursuit of justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of the time elapsed since the offenses occurred. The community of Great Harwood and beyond can rest assured that individuals like Grimshaw are held accountable for their actions, and measures are in place to protect potential future victims.