Derek McAvoy

A 52-year-old man from Corby, Northamptonshire, has been imprisoned for 11 years following his conviction on multiple child sex offences committed over a decade. Derek McAvoy, formerly residing in Northbrook, Corby, was found guilty by a jury at Northampton Crown Court of eight serious charges related to the sexual abuse of a young girl between 2008 and 2019.

The offences involved McAvoy sexually abusing the girl on numerous occasions, including inappropriately touching her and taking photographs of her in various states of undress. Specifically, he was charged with one count of sexually assaulting a girl under 13, four counts of sexually assaulting a girl under 16, two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and one count of voyeurism. The abuse was described as extensive and prolonged, highlighting the severity of McAvoy's actions against the vulnerable victim.

The case came to light in 2019 when the brave survivor reported the offences to Northamptonshire Police. Following her report, McAvoy was promptly arrested and charged. The trial, which lasted four days, concluded on 2 April 2026 with guilty verdicts on all counts. Sentencing occurred on the same day at Northampton Crown Court, where Judge [name not specified] imposed the 11-year custodial sentence, reflecting the gravity of the crimes.

Detective Constable Kirstie Brooks from Northamptonshire Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Unit commented on the outcome: “I am really pleased to see this case end with guilty verdicts, and I hope the survivor in this case feels both a sense of justice and that she has been truly listened to and heard. McAvoy’s abuse was extensive and prolonged, and he is now thankfully behind bars, where people who commit these types of offences belong.” Brooks also acknowledged the contributions of retired officer DC Sharon Jephcott and reaffirmed the unit's commitment to pursuing similar cases.

This conviction underscores Northamptonshire Police's dedication to investigating child abuse allegations thoroughly and securing justice for victims. The case was handled under the jurisdiction of the Crown Prosecution Service, with the trial proceedings reported by Northamptonshire Police in their official news release dated 14 April 2026.