COLIN NIXON FROM KIRKBY STEPHEN AND PENRITH JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRL

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities of Kirkby Stephen and Penrith, Colin Nixon, a 54-year-old man from Barton View, Penrith, has been sentenced to serve two years in prison for the repeated sexual abuse of a young girl. The court also mandated that Nixon register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

During the proceedings at Carlisle Crown Court, it was revealed that Nixon had engaged in a disturbing pattern of molestation over a span of two years. The abuse took place both inside his vehicle and at his residence in Kirkby Stephen, where he was known to own a care home at the time. The victim, now in her mid-20s, testified that the trauma inflicted upon her has had lasting effects, particularly in her ability to establish normal romantic relationships with men.

Nixon faced ten charges of indecent assault. He denied the allegations, claiming that although he had occasionally kissed and cuddled the girl, there was no sexual intent behind his actions. Despite his denial, the court found him guilty of eight of the charges, with some of the convictions representing the more egregious acts committed against her. The trial revealed a disturbing pattern of grooming behavior, with Nixon systematically manipulating the young girl.

Throughout the trial, the victim recounted how Nixon would regularly abuse her between the ages of seven and ten, often telling her she was “special” to justify his actions. Her testimony painted a picture of a calculated effort to manipulate and control her, with Nixon showering her with gifts and professing love—words that have since become a source of emotional difficulty for her.

Judge Paul Batty QC addressed Nixon directly, condemning his actions as more than isolated incidents. He described the conduct as a “systematic course of conduct,” emphasizing that Nixon’s behavior was a classic example of grooming. The judge highlighted the emotional damage inflicted on the victim, noting that she now struggles to form genuine loving relationships because she associates love with her experiences with Nixon. The court’s verdict underscores the gravity of Nixon’s crimes and the profound impact they have had on his victim’s life.