Jacob Atkinson

A Leicestershire man, Jacob Atkinson, was jailed for seven years following his conviction for historic child sex offences committed in the 1980s. Atkinson, aged 55 at the time of sentencing, had preyed on a vulnerable nine-year-old girl in Rossendale, Lancashire, subjecting her to repeated rape, indecent assault, and indecency with a child over several years.

The abuse began when the victim was just nine years old and continued throughout the 1980s until Atkinson left the area to attend university. For decades, the crimes remained hidden, with Atkinson believing he had evaded justice. However, the victim's bravery in coming forward years later prompted a thorough police investigation by Lancashire Constabulary.

Atkinson, residing on Birkdale Road in Anstey, Leicestershire, was arrested and charged based on the historic allegations. He stood trial at Preston Crown Court in April, where a jury found him guilty on all counts. On 30 January 2026, he returned to the same court for sentencing. The judge imposed a seven-year custodial sentence, taking into account Atkinson's age and the sentencing guidelines applicable to offences committed at that time. Additionally, Atkinson was placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life.

Dave Hindle, from Lancashire Constabulary's Major Crime Review Team, commented on the case, stating: "Atkinson targeted his vulnerable victim for his own sordid sexual interests. Once he got to his 50s he probably thought he had gotten away with his detestable crimes." Hindle praised the victim's courage, noting: "However, it's thanks to the victim's bravery in reporting these offences to us and then giving evidence in court that a light has been shone on who Atkinson truly is." The sentencing provided long-overdue justice for the victim after more than four decades.

The case was reported by Leicestershire Live, highlighting the persistence of law enforcement in addressing historic sexual abuse allegations. Lancashire Constabulary's investigation underscored the importance of victims speaking out, even years after the events.