SIMON FITZGERALD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN BURY AND THREATENING VICTIM'S FAMILY

In a case that has shocked the community of Bury, Simon Fitzgerald, aged 29, has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison following his conviction for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The incident took place while the young girl was asleep, and it has left a lasting impact on her and her family.

The court proceedings, held at Manchester Crown Court, revealed that Fitzgerald, a resident of Otter Drive in Bury, engaged in a disturbing sexual act with the minor after she had fallen asleep while watching television. The court heard that Fitzgerald pleaded guilty to the charges of sexual assault and also to charges of intimidating a witness, which added a further layer of severity to his sentencing.

According to the prosecution, Mark Kellett, Fitzgerald's actions extended beyond the assault itself. The court was informed that Fitzgerald attempted to intimidate the victim’s mother by shouting through her letterbox and placing a can of petrol on her doorstep in an effort to threaten or frighten her. These actions demonstrated a pattern of intimidation and malicious intent, which the court took into account during sentencing.

Fitzgerald’s guilty pleas were entered during a trial on March 1, despite him initially denying the allegations. The court was told that the assault lasted approximately five minutes before Fitzgerald left the scene. The victim, in a display of bravery, pretended to be asleep once she realized what was happening, a detail that underscored the trauma she endured.

Judge Timothy Smith, presiding over the case, sentenced Fitzgerald to 56 months in prison. In his remarks, the judge acknowledged Fitzgerald’s expressions of remorse and his guilty pleas, stating that these factors served as his best defense. The judge also issued a restraining order to prevent Fitzgerald from approaching the victim or her family in the future, ensuring their safety.

Furthermore, Fitzgerald was subjected to a sexual health prevention order, which restricts him from residing in the same house as a child under 16 unless social services approve. This order aims to prevent any future harm and protect vulnerable minors in the community of Bury. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding minors and the consequences faced by those who violate their trust and safety.