JOSEPH AND JOHN O’NEILL FROM ECCLES SENTENCED FOR DECADES-LONG SEXUAL ABUSE ON YOUNG GIRLS IN SALFORD AND LONDON

In a disturbing case that spanned several decades and multiple locations, a pensioner and his son from Eccles have been convicted and sentenced for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against young girls. The crimes, which inflicted lasting trauma on the victims, date back to the mid-1950s for Joseph O’Neill, aged 82, and from the 1970s and late 1980s for his son, John O’Neill, aged 55.

These offenses took place not only within the boundaries of Eccles in Salford but also extended to London, highlighting a disturbing pattern of abuse that crossed regional boundaries. The victims, some as young as five years old, were subjected to a series of sexual assaults that left deep scars. Both Joseph and John O’Neill denied the allegations throughout the trial, forcing their victims to confront their trauma publicly and relive their painful experiences during the court proceedings.

After a thorough trial, a jury found both men guilty of multiple counts of sexual abuse. John O’Neill, residing on Trident Road in Barton, was convicted of six counts of rape, nine counts of indecent assault, and three acts of indecency against children. The judge at Minshull Street Crown Court sentenced him to 18 years in prison, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

Meanwhile, Joseph O’Neill, of Cromwell Road in Eccles, was found guilty of six counts of indecency with a child and eight counts of indecent assault. He received a prison sentence of six years. The sentences underscore the gravity of their offenses and the long-lasting impact on their victims.

Authorities have commended the bravery of those who came forward to testify, emphasizing the importance of reporting such crimes regardless of when they occurred. Detective Constable Audra Corlett from GMP’s Child Abuse Investigation Team, based in Salford, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “The sentence reflects the seriousness of the abuse endured by the victims over a prolonged period of time. I want to take this opportunity to recognize the bravery of these women.”

Corlett also highlighted the challenges faced by victims who are forced to relive their trauma in court, noting, “Both John and Joseph O’Neill pleaded not guilty and forced their victims to stand trial and relive their experiences all over again. This case proves that we will take all reports of abuse seriously, no matter when it took place, and we will thoroughly investigate the claims of victims. It also proves to those committing the crimes that we will leave no stone unturned and justice will eventually catch up with you.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected sexual offenses. They can contact Greater Manchester Police at 101 or reach out directly to St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre at 0161 276 6515, ensuring that victims’ voices are heard and justice is served.