BURNLEY MAN JAILED FOR HISTORIC RAPE OF GIRL
A man from Burnley faces the possibility of never being released into society again after being sentenced for a severe historical sexual assault against a young girl.James Raynor, aged 78, appeared at Preston Crown Court charged with one count of rape and three counts of indecent assault.
The victim, now an adult, reported the incident to police in May 2024, revealing details of the abuse committed by Raynor.
During the hearing, it was revealed that the assault occurred while the victim was in bed, and she was subjected to rape and sexual assault by Raynor.
Prosecutor Beth Pilling stated that after the assault, Raynor commented on her virginity, expressed uncertainty about continuing, then got out of bed and left, ending the attack.
He would use sexualised language, comparing her to a "page three model" and grab her from behind, which he described to her as being playful.
The victim impact statement said: “I would never have lived with myself if I had not spoken out when something happened.
“It was the hardest thing I have had to do when I spoke to a detective constable for advice, and he directed me to the right people.
"I didn’t think I would be able to say the words; I have not told anyone of the full extent of what happened to me.
“I have had anxiety over the years, and when I make an effort to look nice, my brain has reminded me of what I am, and I have no right to look nice or feel good after what happened.
"This may not sound rational, and I am so ashamed to admit.
“I am hoping to finally let go of the feelings of guilt and shame and move forward.” Ms Pilling added that the defendant had a previous conviction for a similar offence in 1966.
Recorder Ayesha Siddiqi said that the victim had been “very brave” for coming to court.
She said that the shame that the victim felt was not hers, and she “did nothing to deserve to be treated like that at that age”.
Charles Brown, mitigating, said that the defendant had a number of mental and physical health conditions, including having a pacemaker fitted due to heart failure, breathing issues, lung cancer and that he has regular medical appointments to manage his illnesses.
He said: “Mental disorder is reflected in the poor memory and the psychiatric report that was prepared.
"The physical disabilities and his current health status, and the various medical reports, are set out.
“It is difficult for me to provide any explanation.
Quite frankly, there is no explanation.
“He has done what he can by entering those guilty pleas and sparing the victim of having to give evidence in a criminal trial, and that is the best I can submit on his behalf in relation to the offence.
“He is going to prison for the first time aged 78, that will be a difficult ordeal for a well 78-year-old to do and difficult for a younger man to do.
"This defendant is neither young nor well.
This sentence will be felt harder than someone with different characteristics.” Raynor was sentenced to eight years and nine months imprisonment with a one-year extended licence period.
