WILLIAM TOFT FROM TAMESIDE SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN MANCHESTER CROWN COURT

In a case that has shocked the local community, William Toft, a 63-year-old resident of Tameside, was sentenced to prison for heinous acts of child abuse that spanned over a year during the late 1980s. The abuse was only brought to light in February of the previous year, decades after the crimes took place, highlighting the long-lasting impact of such offenses and the importance of justice.

According to court proceedings, Toft systematically groomed a 14-year-old girl from Warrington by gaining her trust through the giving of gifts, sweets, and other presents. This manipulative behavior was designed to create a sense of closeness and dependency, which he exploited to carry out his abusive acts. The court heard that Toft would then assault the young girl in his car, with these assaults occurring at least twice every month during the period from 1987 to 1988.

Prosecutor Rachel Shenton detailed the disturbing nature of Toft’s actions, stating, “The defendant was kind and nice to her at first. He would order her to remove her clothes and assault her in his car, which would happen at least twice a month.” These assaults inflicted significant trauma on the victim, whose identity remains protected under legal provisions.

The case took a further troubling turn when, during a social services interview in 1992, the girl denied any abuse had occurred. This denial was influenced by threats made by Toft, who had warned her that if she told anyone about the abuse, he would harm her in a severe and frightening manner. Ms. Shenton explained, “He threatened her that if she told anyone he would cut off parts of her body,” illustrating the level of intimidation and fear that Toft instilled in his young victim.

During the trial, Toft’s defense, represented by Charlotte Holland, claimed that the defendant believed he was in a consensual relationship with the girl, which he alleged only began after she turned 16. Holland also stated that Toft claimed to have no memory of the offenses and attributed his actions to heavy drinking at the time. She argued that Toft’s remorse was genuine and suggested that the risk of re-offending was low, proposing that the sentence could be suspended.

However, Judge Adrian Smith was unequivocal in his sentencing, condemning Toft for causing fear and confusion in a vulnerable child. The judge emphasized the lasting effects such trauma can have, stating, “This court can only guess at the effects this has on a child. You can see the degree of distress and confusion you have caused her as she has grown up.” The judge also acknowledged the difficulty of serving a prison sentence at the age of 63 but underscored that such risks are inherent when someone interferes with and threatens children.

Ultimately, William Toft was sentenced to two years in prison for four counts of indecent assault, marking a significant step in the pursuit of justice for his young victim and serving as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding children from predators.