ANDREW ARMSTRONG FROM SUTTON-IN-CRAVEN JAILED FOR DEPRAVED SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL

 |  Red Rose Database

Sutton-in-Craven Sexual Abuser
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Sutton-in-Craven, Andrew Armstrong, a 69-year-old man, has been sentenced to five years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over three decades ago. The crimes involved the abuse of a young girl, with the incidents dating back to the early 1970s, specifically between 1971 and 1981, according to court records.

During the proceedings at Bradford Crown Court, it was revealed that Armstrong engaged in a pattern of depraved and manipulative sexual acts with the victim, who was a child at the time. The court heard that Armstrong would blindfold the girl, effectively depriving her of sight, and then proceed to carry out his abusive acts under the guise of secrecy. He repeatedly told her that their activities were “our little secret,” a tactic aimed at instilling fear and silence in his young victim.

Andrew Armstrong, who resides on Walton Street in Sutton-in-Craven, pleaded guilty to a total of 11 charges, which included indecent assault and acts of indecency with a child. The judge, Mr. Justice John Potter, described Armstrong’s conduct as “depraved and perverted,” emphasizing that his actions were driven by a desire for sexual gratification at the expense of the young girl’s well-being. The judge also commended the victim’s bravery and resilience in coming forward to share her ordeal.

Prosecutor Sarah Mallett detailed the nature of the abuse, stating that Armstrong engaged in wrestling and touching games with the girl, during which he would grab her breasts and even use a sex toy on her. When the girl resisted his advances, Armstrong responded with verbal abuse, calling her rude names, further demonstrating his manipulative and controlling behavior. The victim confided in a church minister about the abuse, who then confronted Armstrong. However, it was not until earlier this year that the girl decided to report the abuse to the police.

Following her disclosure, Armstrong was arrested and, during police interviews, he admitted to the abuse, acknowledging that he had assaulted the girl when she was a child. His solicitor, Nigel Jamieson, argued that Armstrong had not committed any criminal acts in the 30 years since the abuse, and noted that he was suffering from cancer, although he was not seeking further treatment. Jamieson stated, “He doesn’t really care whether his health improves or not, whether he lives or dies.”

Judge Potter highlighted the systematic nature of the abuse, emphasizing that it involved planning, manipulation, and long-term psychological harm. The court heard that Armstrong sought to control the girl by forcing her to wear a hood or blindfold during their encounters, which added to the trauma inflicted upon her. The judge described the case as a “catalogue of grave and serious offending,” underscoring the severity of the crimes.

To protect others from potential harm, the court imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prohibits Armstrong from contacting his victim and aims to safeguard young girls from future abuse. The judge also noted that, given the nature of the offenses and Armstrong’s age, a custodial sentence was inevitable. Additionally, it was acknowledged that arrangements should be made for his care, considering his role as a carer for his elder brother. Armstrong was granted bail until September 20, pending further legal proceedings, including the requirement for him to register as a sex offender with the police.
← Back to search results