JOHN PARRISH, SALFORD AND SHREWSBURY PAEDOPHILE SCOUT LEADER, SENTENCED FOR DECADES-OLD ABUSE

In a case that has spanned over five decades, John Parrish, a man previously known for his role as a scout leader in Salford, has been convicted and sentenced for the sexual abuse of a young boy during the late 1960s. The victim, who has chosen to remain anonymous for legal reasons, finally found the courage to come forward after many years of silence, driven by concerns that his grandson might also fall prey to Parrish's predatory behavior.

John Francis Parrish, now aged 70 and residing in Castle Gates, Shrewsbury, was identified as the perpetrator of repeated sexual assaults against a young boy in Salford. The abuse took place over a four-year period, from 1966 to 1970, during which Parrish, who was serving as a scout master, would often accompany the victim to the toilet and commit acts of sexual assault. The victim recounted that Parrish would whisper, “Be quiet,” as he assaulted him, creating an atmosphere of fear and silence that lasted for more than fifty years.

The victim, whose identity remains protected by law, revealed that he endured this trauma in silence for decades until his grandson expressed an interest in joining the Scouts. This concern prompted him to finally speak out about the abuse he suffered as a child, fearing that Parrish might still be abusing children or could do so again.

Following a thorough investigation, Parrish pleaded guilty to six counts of indecent assault on a male under the age of 14. His actions, which took place in Salford during the late 1960s, have now led to his imprisonment. On Friday, at Manchester Crown Court located on Crown Square, Parrish was sentenced to eight years in prison for his crimes.

The court's decision underscores the importance of addressing historical abuse cases and providing justice for victims who have suffered in silence for many years. Parrish’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of such abuse and the necessity of vigilance within community organizations like the Scouts to protect vulnerable children from predators.