MICHAEL MCGRATH FROM ACCRINGTON SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN ACCRINGTON AND BURNLEY

In a case that has shocked the local community, Michael McGrath, a man from Accrington, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars after being found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting a young girl. The disturbing details of the case emerged during a hearing at Burnley Crown Court, revealing the profound impact of the abuse on the victim, who only found the strength to come forward many years later.

The court was informed that the victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, recounted her traumatic experiences to police. She described how McGrath, a resident of Abbey Street, Accrington, had subjected her to sexual abuse in the Accrington area. It was only when she reached adulthood that she felt capable of confronting her past and reporting the crimes. Her account was taken during a video interview conducted by specially-trained detectives, a process that helped her finally disclose the abuse she endured as a child.

Michael McGrath, aged 61 at the time of sentencing, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including rape, indecent assault, and indecency with a child. The prosecution, led by Jeremy Grout-Smith, revealed that the victim had confided in a former partner about the abuse, but she was not ready to report it to authorities at that time. This delay caused significant frustration for her former partner and created tension within their relationship, the court heard.

During the proceedings, it was disclosed that McGrath had a criminal record dating back to 1979, which included theft-related offenses and minor acts of violence. However, there were no previous convictions related to sexual offenses. The court was told that McGrath had encouraged the girl to participate in sexual acts and had committed acts of rape and molestation against her.

Judge Jonathan Gibson, presiding over the case, emphasized the serious and lasting effects that such sexual abuse can have on victims. He highlighted the importance of justice in cases like this, where the trauma can persist well into adulthood. As part of his sentence, McGrath was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for life upon his release from custody. Additionally, he will be permanently barred from working with children, ensuring he cannot hold positions that would put children at risk again.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting scars inflicted by sexual abuse and the importance of supporting victims in coming forward, regardless of how much time has passed since the offenses occurred.