MARTIN KERRIGAN SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN MANCHESTER'S FALLOWFIELD NEIGHBORHOOD
In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Manchester community, a young man named Martin Kerrigan has been convicted and sentenced for a heinous sexual assault that took place in the Fallowfield area, specifically near Owens Park.The incident occurred in February 2007, when Kerrigan, then 20 years old, targeted a female student who was walking home after an evening out with friends.
According to reports, Kerrigan approached the victim from behind as she made her way through a secluded alleyway.
Without warning, he forcibly dragged her into the alley and threatened her with violence, saying, “Don’t scream, don’t scream or I’ll stab you.” Despite her pleas, Kerrigan proceeded to commit the assault, raping her in a brutal and unprovoked attack.
Prosecutor Suzanne Goddard addressed the court, describing the profound impact the assault has had on the victim’s life.
She stated, “She is now hyper-alert, very wary of men and unable to go out after dark alone.
The incident has affected her, her family, and her friends, impacting all aspects of her daily life.” Miss Goddard further revealed that the young woman continues to suffer from distressing flashbacks related to the attack, illustrating the lasting trauma inflicted upon her.
Kerrigan, who resides on Kingsway in Burnage, was apprehended following forensic evidence.
DNA testing conclusively linked him to the crime scene, leading to his arrest.
During legal proceedings, Kerrigan admitted to the charges of rape and attempted robbery, acknowledging his involvement in the assault.
In a sentencing hearing at Manchester Crown Court, Kerrigan was sentenced to serve a minimum of two years and 143 days in a young offenders’ institution.
The court noted that he would be eligible for parole consideration after serving this period, but emphasized the severity of his actions and the lasting harm caused to the victim.
The case underscores the ongoing concerns about safety and violence in Manchester’s university and residential areas, particularly in neighborhoods like Fallowfield, which are popular among students and young residents.
