PAUL LINTON FROM DENTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDERAGE GIRL IN MANCHESTER

In a case that has shocked the community of Denton and the wider Manchester area, Paul Linton, a 43-year-old man residing on Stockport Road in Denton, has been sentenced to a significant prison term after admitting to serious sexual offenses involving a minor. The sentencing took place at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester, where Linton was handed a sentence of seven and a half years in prison.

Prior to the sentencing, Linton pleaded guilty to seven counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child, a charge that underscores the gravity of his actions. The case came to light after the victim, a young girl whose identity remains protected, chose to come forward and disclose her traumatic experiences. Her bravery in speaking out has been widely commended by law enforcement and advocacy groups alike.

The victim expressed a sense of relief following the court's decision, stating, “I felt confused, isolated and unable to tell anyone, but I came forward because I wanted to reach out to other girls and encourage other victims to come forward and talk. After the sentencing, I feel relieved and much happier within myself.” Her words highlight the importance of speaking out and seeking justice in cases of abuse.

However, her family members have voiced their dissatisfaction with the length of the sentence, believing it does not adequately reflect the severity of the crimes committed. A family member commented, “This has ruined her, taking away all her innocence. What she has been through has devastated the whole family. She is now on lots of medication to help her. She has been having trouble sleeping and has been really affected by what happened to her. We just hope that time is a healer for her and she will get through it in time. We feel the sentencing is not enough. We were hoping for double figures but we got half of what we expected.”

Detective Constable Jo Tinsley, from Greater Manchester Police’s Tameside division, praised the victim’s courage, saying, “The girl was very brave to come forward and disclose such horrific experiences and I would like to commend her for that. I hope this sentence gives the victim some peace, knowing Linton is behind bars, and she can move on with her life.”

The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals and bring offenders to justice, especially in communities like Denton where such incidents can deeply impact the local fabric.