Jessica Brennan

A Harrogate resident, Jessica Brennan, who was known as Allan Brennan at the time of the offences, has been sentenced to 22 years in custody for a series of sexual abuses committed against four young schoolgirls over nearly two decades.

The offences took place between 1998 and 2016, during which Brennan preyed on vulnerable victims who were under the age of 13 at the time of some assaults. The investigation was led by North Yorkshire Police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID), prompted by the brave testimonies of the victims who came forward, some after more than 20 years, to support the case.

Brennan, aged 54, was arrested and questioned by detectives but denied all knowledge of the crimes, forcing the victims to endure the stress of a full trial. On 17 May 2021, at York Crown Court, Brennan was found guilty on multiple counts, including attempted rape of a child under 13, assault of a girl under 13 by penetration, five counts of sexual activity with a child, assault by penetration, two counts of sexual assault, sexual activity with a child, and five counts of indecent assault.

In addition to the 22-year custodial sentence, the court imposed lifelong registration on the sex offenders register and an indefinite Sexual Harm Protection Order to restrict Brennan's activities upon release. An extended four-year period on prison licence was also ordered. The judge described the offences as those of a 'vile and dangerous' paedophile, highlighting the profound impact on the victims' lives.

Detective Constable Rebecca Prentice from North Yorkshire Police's Harrogate & Craven CID commended the victims' courage, stating that their determination ensured Brennan's long-term incarceration. The case underscores the long-term effects of such crimes and the importance of reporting sexual abuse, no matter how much time has passed.