RICHARD WINN FROM MARYPORT SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS IN CUMBRIA

In a harrowing case that has shocked the community of Maryport and the wider Cumbria region, Richard John Winn, aged 56, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 18 years at Carlisle Crown Court for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against two young girls. The crimes, which spanned from 2002 to 2007, involved multiple counts of rape and other sexual and indecent assaults, all inflicted upon victims who were under the age of 13 at the time.

Both women bravely took to the witness stand during the trial to deliver powerful and emotional statements about the profound and lasting impact Winn’s abuse had on their lives. One of the victims expressed her pain by stating, “You took our childhood from us, but it didn’t stop there,” highlighting the ongoing trauma that continued into her adult years. She described how the abuse had left her unable to sleep properly and had severely damaged her ability to trust others.

The second woman also shared her story, emphasizing the deep scars left by Winn’s actions. She explained, “I have struggled with a lot of things in my life, one of the main things is trust in men,” and clarified that she no longer considered herself merely a victim but a survivor of the ordeal.

Richard Winn, who resided on Derwent Avenue in Maryport, denied all charges brought against him. However, the jury found him guilty after hearing detailed testimonies from both women. The court proceedings revealed that Winn had committed multiple acts of sexual violence, including rape against one of the victims and sexual assault against the other.

During police interviews, one of the victims recounted her experience, saying, “I couldn’t get away,” and added, “He just wouldn’t stop.” The other victim described her ordeal by stating, “No matter how much I said ‘no,’ he would carry on,” illustrating the relentless nature of Winn’s abuse.

In a later social media message, Winn attempted to reflect on his past actions, expressing disbelief and remorse. He stated, “Don’t know. I can’t believe I did that sort of thing myself. I just wish God will forgive me when he finally takes me.”

The presiding judge, Recorder Julie Clemitson, addressed Winn directly during sentencing, remarking, “You took steps to prevent her from telling anyone by emotionally blackmailing her.” She also acknowledged Winn’s health issues, noting, “You suffer from significant health issues therefore your time in custody will be far more onerous than that of a fitter man,” which contributed to the severity of his sentence.

This case underscores the devastating impact of childhood sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims. The community of Maryport and the wider region will undoubtedly be affected by the revelations and the subsequent sentencing of Richard Winn, whose actions have left a lasting scar on the lives of two young women.