TERRY DELANEY'S REIGN OF TERROR ENDS IN HULL AND YORK: A COMPREHENSIVE RECAP OF HIS CRIMES AND CONVICTIONS

In August 2008, a wave of relief washed over the community of Acomb, Hull, and York as Terry Delaney, a man notorious for his dangerous past, was once again detained after a brief period of freedom. Delaney, who had been released early from prison, was immediately re-incarcerated following violations of the strict conditions imposed upon his release, reigniting fears among residents and raising questions about the effectiveness of current legal safeguards.

Delaney's history is marred by a particularly disturbing incident in York, where he attempted to abduct a teenage girl. This act prompted a vigorous campaign by The Press, aimed at safeguarding children from predators like him. Despite the initial release, the legal system faced criticism because a loophole prevented Delaney from being placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register, a gap that was later addressed through new legislation following the campaign's success, which now grants courts the authority to include child offenders on the register.

Today, the mother of the girl recounted her experience and the ongoing impact of the incident. She revealed that Witness Protection officers had informed her that, under the terms of Delaney’s release, he was subject to specific restrictions. These included a requirement that he reside in Hull and avoid any contact with her daughter or returning to Acomb, the scene of his attempted abduction. The mother expressed her hope that Delaney would serve the full four-year sentence, emphasizing her concern over his breach of the conditions.

She shared that her daughter, now 15 and preparing for her GCSEs and subsequent A-levels, remains deeply affected by the trauma. The girl, who chooses not to speak about the day Delaney tried to abduct her, has shown resilience and pride in her achievements despite her ordeal. Her mother described the shock of learning about Delaney’s early release, stating, “We always knew he was going to be released, but it still came as a shock when we were told by Witness Protection that it was happening.”

Expressing her relief at his re-incarceration, the mother also voiced her concerns about the breach of restrictions. She explained that the only known conditions were that Delaney could not contact her daughter and was required to live in Hull, where he had previously served time. She emphasized that the breach demonstrated a lack of trustworthiness and highlighted the importance of vigilant monitoring, especially given the perception of Delaney as a dangerous individual. Witness Protection officers have reportedly been supportive and kept the family informed throughout the process.

Mike Ryan, the assistant chief probation officer with North Yorkshire Probation Service, stated that while he could not comment on individual cases, any breach of license conditions by offenders is taken very seriously and can result in a return to prison. The decision on whether an offender serves the full sentence lies with the Parole Board, he added.

Delaney’s criminal history includes a notable incident in May 2006, when he was convicted of attempted child abduction. At that time, he was sentenced to four years in prison after attempting to kidnap a girl at a bus stop in Acomb. The court heard that Delaney, then 52 and described as 'swollen-faced,' approached the girl, who was only 13, and engaged her in conversation before trying to pull her away. The girl managed to give a false name and escape, running away in fear. CCTV footage confirmed Delaney’s identity, and he was subsequently convicted by a jury.

Judge Paul Hoffman, presiding over the case, expressed his frustration that the law prevented him from imposing a more severe sentence or placing Delaney on the sex offenders’ register. He remarked, “It makes no sense to me. It is obviously an anomaly.” The judge explained that although Delaney was considered a serious risk to children, current legislation limited his sentencing options, leaving him with only the conventional sentence power. The judge also noted that Delaney’s denial of the offence and lack of remorse were concerning, especially given the probation report’s suggestion of possible violent or sexual motives.

Following the court proceedings, the girl’s mother voiced her satisfaction with the sentence, though she lamented the legal limitations that prevented Delaney from being registered as a sex offender. She expressed her relief that he was now in prison, which provides her daughter with a sense of safety. However, she warned that without further legal reforms, Delaney could potentially re-enter the community and pose a threat again. She concluded by emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance and stronger protective measures for children in the future.