HAROLD MEDLOCK ROTHERHAM PENSIONER JAILED FOR ABUSING SCHOOLGIRLS

In June 2012, a disturbing case involving Harold Medlock, a 78-year-old pensioner from Rotherham, came to light as he was convicted and sentenced for the abuse of young girls. The Sheffield Crown Court heard harrowing details of Medlock’s predatory behavior, which revealed a pattern of manipulation and exploitation that spanned several years.

Judge Richard Mansell QC described Medlock as a 'classic paedophile,' emphasizing his manipulative and cunning nature. Despite having served two previous prison sentences for offenses involving children, Medlock continued to target vulnerable young girls in his community. His latest crimes involved abusing one girl when she was only seven or eight years old and attempting to engage another girl, aged between 10 and 11, in sexual activity by offering her money.

The court was informed that Medlock had offered the older girl a sum of £200 in exchange for sex, a clear indication of his predatory tactics. Both girls had visited his residence on multiple occasions, primarily because he owned a bandit machine, which he allowed them to play on. These visits, however, became opportunities for abuse. The older girl confided in her teacher and a friend about Medlock’s inappropriate advances, which ultimately led to his arrest.

Further details revealed that the younger girl was given money by Medlock to play on his gaming machine. Prosecutor Rachel Harrison explained that this gave Medlock 'an opportunity to touch her,' highlighting the manipulative methods he employed to exploit the children. On one occasion, the girl’s parents allowed her to stay overnight at Medlock’s house, mistakenly believing his wife would be present. However, they discovered the next day that his wife was away on holiday. During that night, Medlock entered the girl’s bed while she was alone.

The young victim also recounted an incident where Medlock touched her while she was sitting on his knee during a car ride. These acts of abuse were corroborated by police statements and the girls’ testimonies.

Medlock’s criminal history was extensive. In 1992, he was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for a series of indecent assaults on girls under 14, which took place at swimming baths. He was again jailed in 2004 for 18 months following an indecent assault on a teenage girl. Despite these previous convictions, Medlock continued his offending behavior.

Following his latest conviction, Medlock was sentenced to six years in prison. Additionally, he was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. This order prohibits him from being in the company of any child under the age of 16 unless a parent or guardian is present.

Judge Mansell concluded his remarks by condemning Medlock’s manipulative tactics, stating, “You are a classic paedophile – you are manipulative, you are cunning, you groom young girls by offering them money and giving them other treats in return for sexual favours.” The case underscores the ongoing threat posed by individuals like Medlock and highlights the importance of vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable children in communities like Rotherham.