FRANK BURKE FROM ASTLEY BRIDGE SENTENCED FOR DECADES-OLD SEXUAL ABUSE IN BOLTON

In a case that has spanned over two decades, Frank Burke, a 67-year-old resident of Ashworth Lane in Astley Bridge, was brought before Bolton Crown Court to face charges related to the sexual abuse of a young girl. The allegations revealed that Burke had engaged in a pattern of indecent assault against the girl, beginning when she was only eight years old and continuing for approximately five years.

Details of the case emerged during the court proceedings, highlighting that Burke had confessed to his crimes long before he was officially charged. It was disclosed that in 1970, nearly 20 years prior to his arrest, Burke confided in his wife and family about his misconduct. Despite this confession, the matter was not reported to the police at that time, and no legal action was taken. The court was also informed that Burke made another confession in 1993, this time to a doctor and a senior member of his Jehovah’s Witness congregation. However, a decision was made within the church community to keep the matter private, and authorities were not notified.

It was only after the victim, now aged 52, filed a formal complaint in February of the previous year that police became involved. Prosecutor Susan Carter explained that Burke was subsequently interviewed by law enforcement officials, during which he admitted to indecently assaulting the girl approximately once every two weeks until she reached the age of 12. Burke pleaded guilty to six charges of indecent assault during the hearing.

The impact of the abuse on the victim was also discussed in court. Mrs. Carter noted that the girl believed her experiences contributed to her behavioral issues during adolescence and her decision to leave school without obtaining any qualifications at the age of 15. The court heard that the abuse had a lasting effect on her life.

Defence lawyer Philip Parry described Burke as someone who, since the offences, had led a reformed life. Parry emphasized that Burke was now the sole caregiver for his 77-year-old wife, who is described as an invalid. He stated that Burke had taken responsibility for his past actions and had made significant efforts over the past 40 years to improve himself.

Judge William Morris, the Honorary Recorder of Bolton, addressed Burke directly, acknowledging the serious impact his actions had on the victim. The judge noted that the lengthy period since the offences and Burke’s current circumstances influenced his sentencing decision. Burke was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed another offence during that period.

Additionally, Burke was ordered to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and was prohibited from working with children. He was also mandated to pay £500 towards prosecution costs. The victim was not present in court for the sentencing, but members of her family, who attended the proceedings, expressed their disappointment with the sentence. They chose not to comment further on the case.