MICHAEL BARR FROM PRESTON ON THE RUN AFTER CHILD RAPE CONVICTION AND BREACHES

In a developing case that has alarmed the local community, Michael Simon Barr, a man with a troubling criminal history, is currently the subject of a police manhunt following his failure to comply with legal notification requirements. Barr, aged 32 and known to have connections in Preston, as well as in Accrington and Fleetwood, was previously convicted of serious sexual offenses and is now wanted for breaching the conditions of his release.

Michael Barr’s criminal record dates back to 2003 when he was sentenced to ten years in prison for multiple offenses, including child rape, burglary, and sexual assault. His history of violent and predatory behavior has made him a dangerous individual, and law enforcement authorities are urging the public to assist in locating him. Barr was initially incarcerated for his crimes but was released on parole, only to go missing again in 2015, which led to his recall to prison that same year.

The most notorious incident involving Barr occurred in August 2003 in Preston, where he was convicted of raping a 15-year-old girl who was working as a babysitter. Barr, then 19 years old and residing on Burnslack Road in Moor Nook, Preston, entered the girl’s home in Ribbleton without permission. The girl had been caring for children and had fallen asleep downstairs after putting them to bed. She awoke to find Barr, a man she had never met before, engaging in sexual activity with her despite her protests. Barr’s actions were unprovoked and carried out while he was inside the house, which he had entered unseen.

During the trial at Preston Crown Court, Barr denied the allegations, claiming that the girl had initiated the sexual encounter. However, the jury found him guilty of rape in April of that year. Judge Pamela Badley, presiding over the case, sentenced Barr to ten years in prison and emphasized the threat he posed to public safety, stating, “You present a very high risk of re-offending and serious physical harm to the public.”

Further evidence presented during the trial revealed that Barr had a history of violent sexual misconduct. A woman testified that in 2001, Barr had broken into her home and indecently assaulted her. Barr denied this accusation, claiming he had only entered the house to steal. Despite his denial, he was convicted of that offense as well.

In addition to his prison sentence, Barr was disqualified from working with children and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life. His criminal record and the severity of his offenses underscore the ongoing concern among law enforcement and the community about his potential threat. The police continue their efforts to locate Barr, who remains at large, and they are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest. The authorities stress that Barr is considered dangerous and violent, and they urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing him into custody and ensuring public safety.