Graham Pipes

Graham Pipes, described by police as an 'opportunistic sexual predator', has been sentenced to five years and four months in prison for committing two serious sexual offences spanning decades. The first incident occurred in the summer of 2009 at the Leisure Lakes campsite in Tarleton, on the outskirts of Preston. A 21-year-old man awoke to discover Pipes sexually assaulting him while he slept, an act that left the victim deeply traumatised. The man remained silent about the assault for over five years before bravely coming forward to report it in October 2014.

The second offence dates back even further, to 1985, when Pipes raped a seven-year-old boy he was babysitting. Pipes repeatedly denied this historic crime for years, only pleading guilty in October 2015. This admission came shortly before his sentencing, highlighting a pattern of denial followed by eventual accountability.

Detective Constable Catherine Thomas from the Public Protection Unit commented on the case, stating: 'Graham Pipes is an opportunistic sexual predator who took advantage of both a vulnerable man and a young boy to satisfy his own perverse sexual desires. He showed no remorse or consideration for his victims, in particular the child whose innocence he stole, by denying the offence for years before he eventually did the decent thing and admitted it.' Thomas also praised the victims' courage, noting: 'Both victims have shown considerable bravery in coming forward and I hope that today’s result provides them with some solace so that they can start to move forward with their lives.'

The sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court in December 2015, following Pipes' guilty pleas. At the time of sentencing, Pipes was 49 years old and listed as being of HMP Preston, indicating he was already in custody. Lancashire Police's Public Protection Unit investigated the allegations, demonstrating their commitment to pursuing sexual offences regardless of their age. The force emphasised their dedication to treating victims sensitively and professionally, encouraging others to report similar crimes.

This case underscores the long-term impact of sexual violence and the importance of historic investigations in delivering justice. Pipes' actions exploited vulnerable individuals in positions of trust and unconsciousness, resulting in significant harm to his victims.