Thomas Bates

Thomas Bates, aged 21 from Scale Hall Lane in Lancaster, was sentenced to eight years in prison for his role in the repeated sexual abuse of a vulnerable 14-year-old girl. Alongside his co-offender James Palmer, Bates subjected the victim to multiple sexual assaults over the course of a month, exploiting her vulnerability in a series of horrific incidents that left lasting trauma.

The abuse came to light through investigations by Lancashire Police, who detailed how the victim was targeted and assaulted repeatedly. In one particularly brutal episode, one of the men burnt the girl with a cigarette, adding physical injury to the sexual exploitation. Bates, residing in Lancaster, was arrested and charged following the complaints and evidence gathered from the victim and witnesses.

During the court proceedings at Preston Crown Court in March 2025, the judge highlighted the severity of the offences, describing them as a gross betrayal of trust against a child. Bates pleaded guilty to the charges of sexual assault and causing unnecessary suffering to a child. Lancashire Police issued a statement post-sentencing, emphasising their commitment to protecting vulnerable young people: 'We will continue to pursue those who prey on children with the full force of the law.'

• Offences: Multiple counts of sexual assault on a child under 16, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
• Victim impact: The girl suffered significant emotional and physical harm, requiring ongoing support.
• Court location: Preston Crown Court.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by authorities in Lancashire to combat child sexual exploitation, with Bates now serving his custodial sentence as part of the broader crackdown on such crimes in the region.