REDVERS BARNARD FROM ECCLES SENTENCED FOR DECADES OF ABUSE IN GREATER MANCHESTER

In a harrowing case that has shocked the local community, Redvers Barnard, a man formerly residing in Eccles, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over a span of more than twenty years across Greater Manchester. The court heard that Barnard, who claimed to be a Pagan practicing 'white magic' and healing, was in fact a manipulative predator who exploited vulnerable young girls, some as young as four years old.

During the trial at Manchester Crown Court, it was revealed that Barnard's actions were not isolated incidents but part of a long-standing pattern of abuse. The court detailed how Barnard began abusing one young girl early in the 1980s, eventually raping her and taking indecent photographs of her. The victim endured a process of grooming and coercion that persisted into her adulthood, illustrating the depth of Barnard’s manipulation.

As the investigation progressed, it emerged that Barnard’s predatory behavior extended to at least five other young girls, bringing the total number of victims to six. Among these victims, Barnard was convicted of raping one girl and forcing another into lewd acts. The abuse took place at various addresses in Salford, further highlighting the widespread nature of his crimes.

Redvers Barnard, aged 56 at the time of sentencing, was described by the judge as a dangerous offender. The court found him guilty of three counts of rape and sixteen indecent assaults, despite his persistent denial of all charges, claiming that the victims were lying. Barnard’s last known residence was in Middlesbrough, Teesside, but his criminal activities spanned across the Greater Manchester area.

Following his conviction, Judge Michael Henshell labeled Barnard as a highly manipulative individual who treated his victims as his 'sexual property' and used bullying tactics to silence them. The judge emphasized that Barnard had demonstrated a lifelong pattern of sexual attraction to young girls, coupled with coercive and corrupting behavior that terrified his victims.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Henshell expressed his certainty that Barnard is a danger to children and society. He pointed out Barnard’s history of sexual offending and manipulation, which warranted a lengthy custodial sentence. The court also imposed an extended license period, meaning Barnard must serve at least two-thirds of his 22-year sentence before being eligible for parole, and he will remain at risk of recall until 2042.

In conclusion, the judge acknowledged the courage of the victims who came forward, especially in a time when such cases are frequently highlighted in the media. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable children from predators like Barnard, whose actions have left a lasting scar on their lives.