Man jailed for 24 years for string of child sex offences

A man has been jailed today (Friday 3 November 2023) after being found guilty of a string of child sexual offences.

John Fairhurst (17/10/1983), of Dudley Avenue, Bolton has been jailed for 24 years following a trial held at Bolton Crown Court.

He has received 24 years custodial sentence, 6 years to be served on licence, an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and indefinite restraining order.

The court heard how Fairhurst took advantage of his four victims over a number of years, including sending intimate photos, and requesting that they take part in degrading acts.

Fairhurst would get aggressive with his victims, and the court heard that thanks to their bravery in speaking out, he was eventually arrested in October 2022.

In total, Fairhurst was convicted of 17 counts of sexual offences.

Detective Constable Phillipa Fairclough, from Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton district, said: “Firstly, I want to thank the victims in this case for their incredible bravery in coming forward and helping us with the investigation into Fairhurst’s crimes.

“Fairhurst’s acts over several years were abhorrent and I am glad that he is now behind bars. I hope that the sentence is able to bring some comfort to his victims.

"This was a highly emotive and complex investigation to work on and we are committed to putting sexual offenders behind bars. I want the public to know that we thoroughly investigate every report that comes into us.

"Detective Sergeant Kayleigh Wiggins from Greater Manchester Police, who was the senior investigating officer of this case, would like to thank all the victims for speaking out and the team within the child protection team at Bolton for their hard work and dedication.

"If you or someone you know has been a victim of child sexual abuse, please do get in touch with us, as we will do our utter best to help you.

"You can contact police on 101, or via our website gmp.police.uk. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."

Remember – if in doubt report it

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.