RICHARD KANE FROM CARLISLE AND CURROCK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON GIRL NEARLY 20 YEARS AGO

In a case that has spanned nearly two decades, Richard Kane, a man with ties to Carlisle and Currock, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after being convicted of indecently assaulting a young girl. The incident, which occurred approximately 20 years ago, involved Kane, who was then around 18 years old, engaging in inappropriate contact with a 10-year-old girl. At the time, Kane was managing the Rouge nightclub located in Englishgate Plaza, Carlisle, a prominent venue in the city known for its nightlife and entertainment.

Following a detailed trial last month, the jury found Kane guilty of the serious crime. Evidence presented during the proceedings included a police interview video with the victim, in which she candidly expressed her awareness that what had happened was wrong. She recounted that Kane had, on two separate occasions, touched her inappropriately. The jury was also shown that, approximately a week or two after the initial incident, Kane had further threatened her by placing his hand over her nose and mouth, intimidating her into silence.

The woman, who only disclosed the abuse last year, bravely testified in court about her experiences. She revealed that Kane, a father of two, had denied the allegations, claiming that the incidents never took place. Despite his denial, the jury found sufficient evidence to convict him of indecent assault.

Prosecutor Kim Whittlestone emphasized Kane’s role in the local nightlife scene, noting that he was not only the manager of Rouge nightclub but also involved in establishing Kiss, another venue situated in Englishgate Plaza. The judge, Peter Hughes QC, addressed the court during sentencing, acknowledging the profound and lasting impact the assaults had on the victim. He stated, “What happened in these two incidents has had a long and lasting effect on your victim. I have no doubt, seeing and listening to her evidence, that what happened had a very significant impact on her.”

As part of his sentence, Kane was also subjected to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from having any contact with children under the age of 16. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults. These measures aim to prevent any future harm and protect potential victims.

Acting Detective Sergeant James Yallop, representing Carlisle’s Public Protection Unit, commented on the case, stating, “The victim in this case was indecently assaulted by Kane when she was just 10 years old. He became violent towards her, and she was too frightened to report her ordeal until now. We encourage anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to come forward and report it to the police, regardless of how much time has passed. Our specially trained officers will handle each case with sensitivity and confidentiality. The police are committed to supporting victims and ensuring justice is served.”