Man jailed for 12 months for voyeurism offences against two victims in Wigan

Johnny Gentle has been convicted for voyeurism offences.

Gentle (02/01/1992) of Acton Street, Wigan was jailed for 12 months at Bolton Crown Court on 09/10/2024 after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing. 

On Tuesday 14 May 2024, Gentle had recorded an image beneath the clothing of a woman at Tesco, on Central Park Way.

The victim and an independent witness had picked out Gentle via a parade as being responsible for the offence.

On Thursday 17 May 2024, Gentle recorded an image under a schoolgirl’s skirt at Wigan Bus Station, with the incident being captured on CCTV.

Gentle was quickly identified and provided ‘no comment’ interviews to the police. He was charged and remanded in custody.

Detective Constable Riyaz Patel from Wigan CID said: “Johnny Gentle is a sexual predator who has committed sexual acts against lone vulnerable females.

“I’d like to thank the victims for coming forward to apprehend this dangerous offender and bring him off the streets of Wigan.

“I hope the sentence imposed by the courts give the victim’s closure and shows that the police will investigate serious and sexual crime vigorously.

“Officers will always work thoroughly and diligently to punish those responsible for sexual crimes in our communities.

“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.

Support Available

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report information and crimes on our website (www.gmp.police.uk).

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There are also lots of organisations and support agencies available across Greater Manchester and nationally that can help and provide support for you.

For more information and to find the support services available to you, please visit our support pages.

Support for Rape and Sexual Assault:

St. 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.

We Are 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.