JOSEPH SWIFT FROM BACUP SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN PRESTON

In a case that has spanned several years and involved extensive investigation, Joseph Swift, a man residing in Bacup, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 20 years after being convicted of committing 14 serious sexual offences against a young girl. The offences included three counts of rape, one attempted rape, six indecent assaults, and four counts of gross indecency with a child. These crimes were committed over a period of time in the past, and the case was brought to justice through a rigorous legal process.

Swift, aged 53 and living at Cutler Greens Farm in Bacup, faced a jury at Preston Crown Court. The court found him guilty of all charges after a retrial, which was necessary because an earlier trial in March ended with the jury unable to reach a verdict. Throughout both trials, Swift maintained his innocence, denying all allegations against him.

The court heard that Swift subjected his young victim to multiple sexual assaults, causing profound trauma. When she confronted him about the abuse, he reportedly expressed remorse, telling her that he wished he could 'turn the clock back.' This statement was part of the evidence presented during the trial, highlighting the emotional impact of his actions.

During the retrial, the victim described Swift as a 'controlling' individual. She recounted that she had reached out to him via text message to confront him about the abuse, and he did not deny the allegations. Instead, he responded with messages asking her not to reveal details of what had happened. She stated, “He said ‘believe me I would do anything to turn the clock back,’” emphasizing his awareness of the gravity of his actions.

The victim also expressed her desire for concrete proof of the abuse, stating she wanted the evidence in black and white to confirm what she had endured. Her courage in giving evidence twice was commended by law enforcement officials, including DC Deborah Sethi from Lancashire Police. Sethi remarked that the investigation was lengthy, spanning nearly three years, and expressed hope that the substantial sentence would bring some measure of closure and justice for the victim.

In addition to the prison sentence, Swift was subjected to a series of court orders designed to prevent further harm. He was issued an indefinite sexual offences prevention order, barred from working with children, and mandated to register as a sex offender for life. Furthermore, he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £120, reflecting the court’s recognition of the severity of his crimes.

DC Sethi emphasized the importance of supporting victims and ensuring that offenders like Swift are held accountable. She praised the victim’s bravery and resilience in facing her abuser in court, acknowledging the long-lasting effects of such trauma. The case underscores the ongoing commitment of Lancashire Police to investigate and prosecute sexual offences, especially those committed against vulnerable children, and to support victims throughout the legal process.