BRADFORD MAN XAVIER MCMANUS SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF VULNERABLE 15-YEAR-OLD GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the community of Bradford, Xavier McManus, aged 22, has been sentenced to six years in prison for his involvement in the sexual exploitation of two vulnerable teenage girls, both aged 15. The court heard how McManus, a resident of Leeds Road in Bradford, systematically manipulated these young girls into engaging in sexual activities with him, exploiting their susceptibility and innocence.

During the proceedings at Bradford Crown Court, it was revealed that McManus employed psychological tactics to coerce the girls into meeting him. Notably, he threatened to harm himself as a means of persuasion, a tactic that underscored the manipulative nature of his actions. Judge Jonathan Rose, presiding over the case, expressed his strong disapproval of McManus’s conduct, emphasizing the danger he posed to young girls in the community.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Rose ordered that upon release, McManus should be subject to an extended four-year license period, reflecting the seriousness of his offenses. The judge described the case as deeply troubling, highlighting the breach of trust and the significant psychological harm inflicted upon the victims.

The court detailed the timeline of McManus’s misconduct. The first victim was contacted via Facebook in August of the previous year. After messaging her, McManus arranged to meet her at a secluded location, where he kissed her. When she disclosed her age—only 15—McManus dismissed her concerns, stating he did not care. Despite her clear refusal and attempts to push him away, he persisted in his advances, eventually sexually assaulting her. The girl, distressed, made it known that she did not want the activity to continue, but McManus continued his assault. He was visibly upset and began crying when he realized he could not manipulate her further.

Following this incident, McManus sent messages to the girl, expressing a desire to see her again and even threatening to take his own life if she did not comply. The girl confided in her mother, leading to McManus’s arrest. He was subsequently released on bail.

Further investigations uncovered that McManus had also contacted a second girl through Facebook around April or May of the previous year. The two met and shared a relationship that involved kissing. Over time, McManus manipulated her into visiting his home in Bradford in November, while he was still on bail for the initial offense. During this visit, they removed their clothes, and McManus engaged in sexual intercourse with her. The girl later disclosed the incident to someone at her school, prompting her parents and the police to become involved. McManus was arrested once again in connection with this second incident.

Throughout the proceedings, Judge Rose emphasized that neither of the girls was to blame for what happened to them. He praised their bravery and resilience in coming forward to report the crimes, acknowledging the courage it took to confront such traumatic experiences. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable young individuals from exploitation and the need for strict legal consequences for those who abuse their trust.