IMMINGHAM SCOUT LEADER ANDREW RANYARD CONVICTED OF SEX OFFENCES AGAINST GIRL IN GRIMSBY

In October 2017, a disturbing case unfolded involving Andrew Ranyard, a 38-year-old man with ties to the Immingham community, who was found guilty of serious sexual offences committed against a young girl. Ranyard, who had previously served as a scout leader, was accused of engaging in a pattern of long-standing and repeated sexual abuse targeting a girl under the age of 16.

Despite denying seven separate charges, Ranyard was ultimately convicted by a jury at Grimsby Crown Court on three counts. The court found him guilty of two counts of multiple indecent assault and one count of indecency with a child. However, he was acquitted of three charges of rape and one of assault, highlighting the complexity of the case and the differing nature of the allegations.

Prosecutor Louise Reevell detailed Ranyard’s involvement in the local community, noting that he resided on College Road in East Halton at the time of the offences. She emphasized that Ranyard was actively engaged in community activities, including organizing social events such as pool, darts, and dominoes at a local pub. His role as a scout leader was also highlighted, which added a layer of betrayal given his position of trust within the community.

The court heard that Ranyard took the young girl, who was under 16, on outings that included shopping trips and visits to the cinema. It was during these outings that grooming behaviors escalated into sexual abuse, with the girl being subjected to inappropriate acts over a period of time. The court was told that the girl was too young to legally give consent to any sexual activity, a point underscored by Recorder Peter Makepeace QC, who stated that her age rendered her incapable of consenting under the law.

Following the verdict, the judge adjourned the case for pre-sentence reports and issued a stern warning to Ranyard that a custodial sentence was “inevitable.” Ranyard was remanded in custody pending sentencing, reflecting the seriousness of the crimes for which he was convicted and the breach of trust involved in his actions.