JOHN JACKSON FROM CHORLEY AND LEYLAND SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AND KIDNAPPING

In a high-profile case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Chorley and Leyland, John Jackson, a 23-year-old man with a notably youthful appearance, has been sentenced to life imprisonment following a series of heinous crimes involving sexual assault, kidnapping, and firearms offenses.

Jackson, formerly residing on Tootell Street in Chorley, was convicted of multiple serious offenses committed over a period from April 2006 to April 2007. His criminal activities included a disturbing pattern of targeting teenage girls in the areas of Chorley and Leyland, culminating in the kidnapping and rape of a 14-year-old girl at gunpoint. The severity of his crimes and the danger he posed to the community were underscored during the sentencing hearing.

Prosecutor Richard Howarth, representing the Crown, detailed Jackson’s modus operandi, revealing that he would approach young girls in his vehicle, often with loud music playing to attract attention. Jackson’s typical tactic involved asking for directions to local landmarks such as Morrison’s stores in Leyland or Chorley, where he was employed, or to the Chorley and South Ribble District General Hospital. His approach was calculated to lure victims into his car, which he used as a tool for his criminal pursuits.

Over the course of his offending spree, Jackson was linked to eight victims, all aged between 14 and 16. His initial offenses involved sexual activity with minors, with the first incident recorded between April and June 2006. His criminal record further includes attempted kidnapping, notably threatening a 14-year-old girl with a knife, saying, “Get in the car or I’ll stab you.”

One particularly alarming incident occurred on Saturday, April 28, when Jackson approached a group of young girls outside a Spar convenience store on Leyland Lane. One girl entered his vehicle to give directions to a supermarket, but Jackson drove her to Worden Park where he subjected her to a terrifying ordeal at gunpoint. This incident led to his arrest the following day, marking a significant escalation in his criminal behavior.

During the court proceedings, Jenny Ashworth, representing Jackson’s defense, argued that his troubled childhood played a role in his actions. She stated that Jackson had endured a “most horrific childhood,” and that the re-entry of his biological mother into his life at the time of the offenses had caused him to revisit traumatic memories from his past.

Judge Andrew Gilbart QC addressed the court, emphasizing the tragic cycle of abuse and its potential to perpetuate further harm. He remarked, “The terrible truth is that those who suffer abuse can go on to cause abuse themselves.” The judge highlighted the findings from pre-sentence reports, which classified Jackson as a “profound danger to young girls,” citing his capacity for serious sexual violence.

Eight young women provided testimony to the police about Jackson’s actions between March of the previous year and April of this year, painting a disturbing picture of his predatory behavior. In his sentencing, Judge Gilbart declared that Jackson’s risk to the public was so significant that he would only be considered for release once the Parole Board was convinced he no longer posed a substantial threat.

As part of his sentence, Jackson was also prohibited from holding a driving license and working with children. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. The case has left a lasting impact on the communities of Chorley and Leyland, highlighting the importance of vigilance and the need for robust measures to protect vulnerable young people from predatory individuals.