MICHAEL HARVEY SENTENCED IN PRESTON FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

A woman has spoken about feeling like 'her life is crumbling' after enduring four years of sexual abuse inflicted by Michael Harvey, 47. Preston Crown Court was told that Harvey attempted to rape a young girl in her sleep when she was just eight years old. Over the subsequent years, he subjected her to multiple sexual assaults, which left her feeling 'sick to the stomach,' she described.

Harvey, who lives on Lulworth Road in Fulwood, Preston, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with an additional year on extended licence, after pleading guilty to the charges. During sentencing, Judge Richard Gioserano noted that the victim waited 'years' before summoning the courage to report her abuse.

"You thought you could get away with it because children often don't tell and feel unable to tell for many years - often overcome with fear, shame, and confusion," the judge said.

When the woman finally spoke out, Harvey initially lied but eventually pleaded guilty as he was about to stand trial at Preston Crown Court. He admitted attempted rape of a child under 13 and six counts of sexual assault, indicating a pattern of ongoing abuse.

The judge stated, "This is no isolated case of sexual abuse. You subjected her to sexual abuse on many occasions over a long period of time between the ages of eight and 12 years old. You corrupted and distorted her childhood, and she is still paying the price for the sexual gratification you obtained from it."

In her victim impact statement, the woman expressed her ongoing struggles: "I find it hard to cope with anything around me and I just feel like I am on my own all the time, with no-one to talk to. It's like I am completely alone. My life feels like it is crumbling. I don't even feel like I am living - more that I just exist. It is so hard to forget something that haunts me and makes me feel sick to my stomach."

She added, "This man has left me feeling worthless. I shouldn't have to feel like this - like no-one wants me around, but I do. Nothing ever changes, so I stay in my room and don't leave the house."

Harvey submitted a letter to the court admitting his guilt and expressing remorse. However, during an earlier interview with a probation officer, the judge indicated that Harvey had tried to downplay his offending.

The judge concluded, "She still struggles. One can only hope that, in time and with love, it might become easier to bear."

Harvey was sentenced to 10 years for attempted rape, with an additional year on extended licence upon release. The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and made him subject to notification requirements indefinitely.