A Rochdale man has been sentenced for a sexual offence committed against a child in the 1980s, following a report made more than 40 years after the incident took place.
Gary O’Shea, 63, of Newark Road, Rochdale, pleaded guilty at Burnley Magistrates’ Court to one count of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 13. The offence took place at his former home in Whitworth, when the victim was aged just eight or nine.
The court was told that O’Shea assaulted the girl while she was sitting on a sofa in his living room. When she objected, he told her: “It’s OK, there’s nothing wrong.”
The victim came forward in September 2023, reporting the incident to Burnley Police Station. O’Shea was arrested, interviewed, and later charged.
He appeared in court on 26 January 2026 and was given a 12-month conditional discharge. The conviction is now on record, but he will not serve a prison sentence unless he commits another offence within that period.
Lancashire Constabulary has encouraged other survivors of historic abuse to come forward, stating that all reports will be taken seriously no matter how much time has passed.
Two men jailed after masked burglary at Radcliffe home while mother and child were inside
Major police operation in Rochdale leads to 41 arrests and large drug seizures
New Littleborough family hub planned as work on £2.9m project progresses
Row erupts over claims Tottington Facebook group removed posts about by election candidate
Councillors raise concerns over strike dispute at St Cuthbert’s High School in Rochdale
Rochdale MP calls on Travelodge to strengthen hotel security after guest assaulted in room
What is really happening at the former soap star’s home in Heywood
Green Party selects Tottington resident Chloe King as candidate for Bury by election
Bury pub The Blue Bell unveils £400,000 refurbishment with new fireplaces and expanded space
New McDonald’s drive-thru refused on health grounds
Rochdale home buyers invited to explore new homes at Silver Hill Manor event
Charity in Bury appeals for help after Henry Hoover stolen from community project

Comments
Add a comment