GEORGE THORLEY FROM BERRY BROW SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR ABUSING TWO FOUR-YEAR-OLD GIRLS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Berry Brow, a local pensioner named George James Thorley has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls, both aged just four years old. The heinous offences took place at Thorley's residence in Berry Brow, where he exploited the innocence of the children during visits to his home.

Leeds Crown Court heard detailed accounts of the abuse, which came to light after one of the young victims confided in her father about a secret she was unable to share. When her father gently pressed her for more information, she revealed that Thorley, whom she referred to as “Grandad George” despite having no familial relation, had engaged in inappropriate conduct towards her and her friend. The girl disclosed that Thorley had rubbed cream on her private parts while she was lying on his bed, and she also admitted that he had done the same to her friend during their visits.

The young girl further explained that on another occasion, Thorley had touched her under her clothing while carrying her, and that he had coerced her into touching his penis on two separate occasions after removing his underwear. These revelations caused significant distress, and the girl has since been suffering from nightmares related to Thorley's actions. She is currently undergoing counselling to help her cope with the trauma. Additionally, she disclosed that she had seen her friend also touch Thorley on one occasion, indicating a disturbing pattern of grooming and abuse.

Prosecutor Nicholas Askins highlighted that Thorley's criminal conduct was not his first offence; he had a previous conviction for indecent assault dating back to 1986, for which he received a suspended sentence at Croydon Crown Court. This history underscores the ongoing risk posed by Thorley, who is now 67 years old and resides on Hangingstone Road.

Representing Thorley in court, solicitor Gillian Batts acknowledged her client's wrongdoing, stating that he recognized he had done wrong and expressed a need for help. Despite this, the court found the evidence of abuse to be serious and deliberate.

Thorley pleaded guilty to four charges of sexual assault and three charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. As a result, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, a measure intended to protect the community from further harm.

Judge Tom Bayliss QC delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of Thorley's actions. He pointed out that the parents of the two young girls had no reason to suspect any danger, yet their trust was betrayed in the most appalling way. The judge described Thorley's behaviour as grooming, facilitated by the giving of sweets to lure the children into his home. He condemned the actions as sexual abuse committed on multiple occasions for Thorley's own perverted gratification.

Judge Bayliss stated, “You committed this sexual abuse of two little girls on a number of occasions,” and noted the lasting impact on the victims, including nightmares and ongoing counselling. He concluded by condemning Thorley's conduct as a reflection of his own perverted desires, which caused irreparable harm to innocent children and shattered the trust of their families.