ANTHONY CALVERT'S HORRIFIC ABUSE IN BOLTON: VICTIM'S 20-YEAR NIGHTMARE ENDS IN JUSTICE

In a case that has shocked the community of Bolton, Anthony Calvert, a 50-year-old man from Torrisdale Close, Deane, faced a lengthy legal battle that culminated in a conviction for a series of heinous crimes spanning over two decades. Despite his efforts to overturn his conviction, Calvert's appeal was firmly rejected by the country's highest judicial authority, cementing his sentence and bringing some measure of closure to his long-suffering victim.

Calvert was sentenced to 18 years in prison at Bolton Crown Court last November after being found guilty of 18 separate charges. These included six counts of rape, along with multiple charges of indecent assault and indecency with a child. The severity of the crimes and the duration over which they occurred highlight the disturbing nature of this case, which has left a lasting scar on the victim and the Bolton community.

The victim, who is now 28 years old, endured a terrifying 21-year campaign of sexual abuse initiated when she was just five years old. The abuse was perpetrated by Calvert, a man who, during the trial, was described as a controlling, possessive, and obsessive individual. The court heard that Calvert's predatory behavior began in 1987, and he systematically groomed the young girl, exploiting her innocence for his perverted desires.

During the trial, the victim provided a tearful account of her ordeal, describing how Calvert would threaten her with violence if she tried to resist. She recounted a particularly disturbing statement he made, saying, “I’ve been in love with you since you were five years old,” which underscored the twisted nature of his affections. She also described how he would threaten her with death and violence if she was ever with anyone else, further illustrating the level of control he exerted over her life.

Calvert's criminal activities extended into repeated sexual assaults in a secluded area of a public park. His threats and manipulative tactics kept the victim trapped in a cycle of abuse, which persisted until she reached her mid-20s. The victim's courage in coming forward in 2008 was a pivotal moment, especially after Calvert discovered she had a boyfriend and threatened to kill him. Following her report, Calvert went on the run, evading police for some time before being arrested earlier this year in Somerset.

During the trial, Calvert denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the girl had made sexual advances towards him when she was 16, and that he had responded to her advances. He insisted that in many instances, she was the one initiating their encounters, and he claimed to have fallen in love with her. Calvert also revealed that he continued his relationship with her even after his wife caught them together, which led to the end of his marriage. He expressed devastation when the relationship ended in 2006.

The prosecution, led by Mr. Iain Simkin, painted a stark picture of a man who used his power and control to manipulate and abuse a vulnerable child for his own gratification. The court was told that Calvert’s actions were part of a sustained grooming campaign, and that his victim was so corrupted that she struggled to say no. The court heard her describe her feelings of fear, helplessness, and being trapped, as she recounted her experiences from behind a screen during her testimony.

Following the verdict, Detective Constable Jill Hardman of Greater Manchester Police emphasized the brutality and duration of Calvert’s abuse. She highlighted the importance of justice for the victim, noting that her innocence had been robbed over many years. Hardman also acknowledged Calvert’s attempt to evade justice by fleeing, but praised the police for their persistence in capturing him and bringing him to trial. She expressed hope that the sentence would help the victim begin to move forward with her life, and praised her bravery in speaking out against her abuser.

Calvert’s appeal to overturn his conviction was unsuccessful, and the court upheld his 18-year sentence. His continued denial and arrogance in the face of overwhelming evidence have only solidified the community’s demand for justice. This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of long-term sexual abuse and the importance of perseverance in seeking justice for victims.