Man from Wigan jailed for 11 years for sexual abuse of two young children

On 15th January 2025, James Lalley (DoB 04/09/1974), from Wigan, was sentenced to 11 years in prison at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court for inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity and the sexual assault of a child under 13. 

Lalley was sentenced to three years for the sexual assault of an eight-year-old girl in Bury, in 2008/2009, and a further eight years for inciting a six-year-old boy to engage in sexual activity in Bolton, in 2021. 

An investigation into the assaults commenced in January 2021 after the incidents were reported to police. 

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Matthew Foy from Greater Manchester Police, said: “Thank you to the victims and their family members for their bravery in coming forward and reporting this abuse.  

“We understand how hard it must have been for them, but in doing so, they helped put a dangerous sexual predator behind bars. 

“GMP is committed to protecting children in our communities and pursuing the perpetrators of sexual abuse. 

“We want to take this opportunity to reassure the victim-survivors of this kind of abuse that the passage of time is not a barrier to justice.  

“If you are affected by sexual abuse, or know someone who may be, please contact us and we will work with you at your pace, when you are ready.”