BURNLEY SEX OFFENDER KEITH GOODWIN SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR TWO-DECADE REIGN OF TERROR

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Burnley, Keith Goodwin, aged 63, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 18 years after being found guilty of a series of heinous sexual offenses spanning over two decades. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that began in the 1970s and persisted well into recent years, leaving a trail of victims scarred by his relentless abuse.

Burnley Crown Court heard detailed accounts of how Goodwin, a man from Briercliffe Road, Burnley, systematically targeted young females, including two teenagers and a schoolgirl. His campaign of sexual violence was characterized by intimidation and bullying tactics designed to silence his victims and prevent them from seeking help or justice. The court was told that his actions had long-lasting effects on those he assaulted, significantly impacting their lives and well-being.

Goodwin faced multiple charges, including seven counts of rape and three counts of indecent assault against his first victim. He also admitted to indecently assaulting a second victim and faced five additional charges of rape involving a third female. During the proceedings, the prosecution, led by Amanda Johnson, explained that police had become involved in the investigation in April 2012. Goodwin was questioned initially on July 22 and again on August 8 of that year. Although he admitted to having sexual relations with two of his victims, he denied the allegations of indecent assault against the schoolgirl.

It was noted that prior to this case, Goodwin had no previous convictions, which added to the shock of his extensive offending. The court was informed that he would be required to sign the sex offenders’ register for life and was subject to an indefinite sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from having any unsupervised contact with individuals under the age of 16.

Jane Dagnall, representing Goodwin, acknowledged the severity of the crimes, stating, “This defendant faces the most horrific offences, offences at the top of the sexual offence calendar, and he will go to jail, at the age of 63, for a substantial period of time.” She emphasized that there was no mitigating factor to lessen his culpability, though she noted that Goodwin did not resort to excessive violence or drug use during the offenses. Dagnall also highlighted that the victims are not merely complainants but individuals who suffered greatly, and that Goodwin recognizes their suffering.

Judge Beverley Lunt delivered the sentence, condemning Goodwin for his two-decade reign of sexual predation. She pointed out that he had managed to evade justice for many years, maintaining a facade of a respectable man while secretly engaging in criminal acts. The judge emphasized his complete lack of morality and selfishness, stating, “Only your needs and wishes are important to you. You have enjoyed years of liberty you were not entitled to, while your victims have continued to suffer from the crimes you have committed.” The court’s decision reflects the gravity of his offenses and the community’s need for justice and protection from such a dangerous individual.