Man given 18-year prison sentence for historic sex offences

A man has been sentenced to 18 years and 10 months in prison for historic sex offences.

Anthony Hart (10/02/1960) pleaded guilty to 25 counts of rape and was sentenced at Bolton Crown Court yesterday (Monday 5 February 2024).

The offences occurred against a child between 2005-2007. The victim was 14-years-old when the offences began and she was raped on a regular basis until the age of 16.

Hart was also made to sign a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Sergeant Paul Sumner, of GMP’s Criminal Investigation Department in Wigan, said: “This is a significant sentence, reflective of the crimes Hart committed some 19 years ago”

“The victim estimates that she was raped hundreds of times by Hart.

“I must thank the victim and their family for having the strength and courage to come forward and allow us to fully investigate this case. This was a horrifying ordeal for a young person to have to go through, when they should have been free to live their life and enjoy themselves.

“While his sentencing cannot take away from the years of suffering Hart caused his victim, we hope it provides some solace in the fact that they are no longer at large.

“We encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, or knows someone who has, to come forward and speak to the police. We will listen to you and we will investigate.”

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers 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.