JOHN KELK FROM BARNSLEY SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS FOR HORRIFIC ABUSE OF THREE GIRLS IN BARNSELY AND SHEFFIELD

In a case that has shocked the community of Barnsley, a man named John Kelk has been handed a severe prison sentence of 30 years after being convicted of a series of heinous crimes committed against three young girls. The offences, which span across the 1970s and 1980s, involved a pattern of brutal physical and sexual abuse that left lasting scars on his victims.

John Kelk, aged 68 and residing on Wingfield Road in Athersley South, Barnsley, was found guilty of 22 separate charges, including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault. The court heard that Kelk subjected his victims to what the judge described as “utterly horrific ordeals,” with acts of violence and sexual violence that were both systematic and deeply disturbing.

According to court records, Kelk physically assaulted one of the young girls by dragging her by her hair, beating her severely, and even forcing her to drink weed killer. His brutality extended to sexual acts, with one girl being raped by penetration with a screwdriver. The court also heard that he had touched another girl intimately, raped her, and forced her to perform a sex act. Disturbingly, he also violated her with a lollipop and a screwdriver, further illustrating the extent of his depravity.

Judge Wright, presiding over the case at Sheffield Crown Court, described Kelk’s crimes as “vile and sickening,” emphasizing the severity of his actions. The judge stated that Kelk had systematically abused and raped two additional young girls, with threats of violence and death used to silence his victims. One of the victims recounted how Kelk had threatened to kill her father if she disclosed what he had been doing to her, highlighting the fear and intimidation that kept the victims silent for years.

During the sentencing, Judge Wright explained that Kelk’s actions had caused profound emotional and psychological damage. The first victim told Kelk directly during the hearing, “What you did to me did not just hurt me physically but emotionally and mentally.” She expressed her desire to be free from the pain and memories inflicted by Kelk, stating, “I used to be embarrassed by what happened. I blamed myself for all this. I lack self-esteem. This has affected me all through my childhood into adulthood.” She further added, “I want to be free from you and the memories and pain you caused me. I deserve to be happy.”

The second victim also addressed Kelk, saying, “The truth is you don’t deserve the time and effort in my thoughts. I have no time in my life for people like you.” The third girl, who was also a victim, described her fear and shame during the abuse, saying, “I was scared when he abused me. I felt deeply ashamed and dirty and could not tell anyone because of fears of repercussions.”

Following the conviction, Judge Wright sentenced Kelk to 30 years in prison, with any possibility of early release to be determined by the parole board. Additionally, Kelk will serve an extra year on his license period once released, ensuring continued supervision. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of his crimes and the community’s need for justice for the victims of these horrific acts in Barnsley and Sheffield.