69-year-old jailed for historic child abuse in Stockport
A man has been sentenced to sixteen years in prison for multiple counts of historic indecent assault against a girl who was just 11 when they first met.
69-year-old Peter Garns, of no fixed abode, subjected his victim to a three-year campaign of abuse in the late 90s and early 00s.
The abuse, which unfolded in Stockport, saw Garns sexually assault the girl on multiple occasions, as well as giving her cigarettes and putting credit on her phone - where he would regularly text her.
During one of the instances of abuse, the girl was still wearing her school uniform, after being manipulated into believing they had a genuine relationship and that he loved her.
Garns has been jailed for sixteen years for seven counts of indecent assault and one count of unlawful sexual intercourse.
Detective Inspector Rebecca Jones, from Greater Manchester Police's Stockport district, said: “Garns abused and manipulated a young girl for more than three years, taking advantage of her and committing vile crimes under the false pretext of love and care.
“The fact she bravely came forward meant that we were able to put together a comprehensive evidential file which secured charges for Garns, and resulted in his imprisonment.
"He has plenty of time to think about his crimes and I hope this result brings a level of closure for the woman involved in this case.
“I want any other victims of similar crimes to know that we will always investigate regardless of when it happened – whether it was 30 days or 30 years ago. Please do get in touch with us, as we will do what we can to help and support you.”
Where to find help if you're a survivor of sexual assault in the North West
Greater Manchester Victims' Services
Greater Manchester Victims' Services
They provide emotional and practical support to anyone affected by crime and are a confidential service. The service can be contacted by visiting the website on www.gmvictims.org.uk or calling 0161 200 1950.
RASASC: Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre (Cheshire & Merseyside)
RASASC: Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre (Cheshire & Merseyside)
RASASC supports people who have been affected by rape or sexual abuse. It has offices in Chester, Crewe, Ellesmere Port, Knowsley, Halton, Northwich, Macclesfield, St.Helens and Warrington, and also offers outreach support in locations across Cheshire and Merseyside.
You can call them on: 0330 363 0063
Young Person's Advisory Service (YPAS)
Young Person's Advisory Service (YPAS)
They support children, young people and families from three locations in Central, South and North Liverpool - covering Liverpool, Sefton, Knowsley, Wirral, and St Helens (Merseyside).
You can contact them on 0151 707 1025, or email support@ypas.org.uk
The Birchall Trust
The Birchall Trust
It offers one to one weekly counselling sessions to male and females of all ages who have experienced rape and/or sexual abuse in South Cumbria and North Lancashire.
You can phone them on 01229 820828 or email on enquiries@birchalltrust.org.uk
Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester
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 telephoning 0161 276 6515.
Greater Manchester Rape Crisis
Greater Manchester Rape Crisis
This 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 help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk
We Are Survivors
We Are Survivors
They provides specialist trauma informed support to boys and men in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.