HALIFAX MAN CRAIG MITCHELL SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
A total of 20 men have been sentenced to over two centuries in prison collectively after being convicted of non-recent child sexual abuse in Calderdale.The offenders received a combined total of 219 years behind bars after being found guilty of raping and abusing young girls.
These convictions resulted from multiple investigations and court trials which proved the men had molested four girls aged 12 to 16 in Calderdale.
Legal restrictions on reporting had been in place during the trial but have now been lifted.
The investigation was launched in 2016, focusing on allegations linked to two girls in Calderdale who faced abuse between 2006 and 2009, while they were aged 13 to 16.
On October 21, a trial at Bradford Crown Court resulted in Craig Mitchell, 55, of Halifax, being convicted of rape and sentenced to 12 years in prison.
Detective Chief Inspector Claire Smith of Calderdale District Police expressed her admiration for the victims’ bravery: “Firstly, I want to recognize the remarkable courage of those who came forward; their bravery in reporting these crimes and enduring the court process is truly commendable.
Due to restrictions, details could not be made public until recently.
I welcome the sentences imposed on these men for the horrific abuse inflicted on the young girls, as heard in court over the past few years.” She continued, “Child sexual exploitation and abuse are of utmost concern for West Yorkshire Police and their partners.
These heinous acts leave lasting scars.
Publicizing these convictions aims to remind everyone that authorities are committed to incarcerating offenders and supporting victims and survivors.” Detective Chief Inspector Smith also urged anyone who experienced child abuse to report it, emphasizing that specially trained officers handle cases of non-recent abuse with compassion and care.
Reports can be made online or by calling 101.
In urgent situations or if someone is in immediate danger, dial 999.
Resources and more information are available on the West Yorkshire Police dedicated webpage on child sexual abuse and exploitation, as well as on national platforms.
