The recent prison sentencing of 20 men in Calderdale, West Yorkshire, has unveiled the ‘abhorrent’ sexual abuse suffered by child victims, aged 12 to 16, between 2001 and 2010.

Following three investigations between 2016- 2018, 20 men have been convicted for the abuse of four girls, receiving a combined sentence of 219 years in Prison. The trials took place between 2021-2024.

An investigation launched in 2016 regarding the exploitation and sexual abuse of 2 girls aged 13 and 16 between 2006 and 2009 resulted in two trials and the conviction of 9 men. A further investigation of repeated sexual abuse of a vulnerable girl between 2002 and 2006, starting at the age of 13, resulted in 3 trials which produced the convictions of 10 men. A final investigation launched in 2018 regarding the sexual abuse of a 12-year girl between the years of 2002 and 2003 concluded in the conviction of Craig Mitchell who was found guilty of rape and subsequently sentenced to 12 years in prison.

The “sheer courage of the victims and survivors” was acknowledged by the Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Claire Smith of Calderdale District Police, whereby she commended the “bravery” of the girls for exposing their predators who subjected them to such horrific and traumatising abuse.

She continued by stating “this is an abhorrent crime which has a lifelong impact on victims and survivors” and that she hopes that ” highlighting the prosecution of these offenders will serve as a reminder that we will continue to do all we can to put perpetrators behind bars and protect victims and survivors.”

Smith stated, “It is never too late to report child sexual abuse.”

Contact a Child Abuse Claims Solicitor

At Farleys, we have a dedicated abuse team that has handled numerous cases on behalf of survivors of sexual abuse. If you would like to discuss the possibility of pursuing a claim, our abuse claims specialists are on hand to help. We understand it can be difficult to talk about what you have experienced but will be available by phone on our dedicated abuse line 0330 134 6430, by email, or through the online chat below, to discuss your case in confidence, whenever you are ready.