JOHN ATKINSON FROM MILLISLE SENTENCED TO 16 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN BELFAST

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Millisle and the wider County Down area, John Atkinson, a 66-year-old man, was sentenced to 16 years in prison at Belfast Crown Court for a series of heinous child sex offenses. The court heard that Atkinson, a resident of Ashley Park in Millisle, had pleaded guilty to a total of 57 charges, including 13 counts of rape, in connection with the abuse of two young girls.

The criminal acts began when one of the victims was between the ages of 10 and 13, a period during which Atkinson subjected her to repeated sexual assaults. The abuse extended further as he also sexually exploited her younger sister, who was between the ages of seven and nine at the time. The severity and duration of the offenses highlight a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several years.

As part of his conviction, Atkinson was ordered to register as a sex offender, a standard legal requirement for individuals convicted of such serious crimes. His guilty pleas encompassed a range of charges, including rape, indecent assault, gross indecency, and the production and distribution of indecent photographs or videos involving one of the victims. Regarding the other girl, Atkinson admitted to attempted rape, indecent assault, and the taking of indecent images.

The court was also informed of the disturbing details that Atkinson, who now uses a wheelchair due to follicular lymphoma—a form of cancer that typically reduces life expectancy to around ten years—had engaged in further criminal activity. It was revealed that he had filmed and photographed himself committing acts of rape and abuse, which he then sold to men in Holland for substantial sums of money. This revelation added a chilling dimension to the case, illustrating the extent of his depravity.

Judge Hart, presiding over the case, acknowledged the serious health condition affecting Atkinson, noting that his illness would likely impact his lifespan. The judge stated, “It is reasonable to infer that the lymphoma will have some effect upon his life expectancy and that most of the rest of his life will be spent in prison.” The court's decision reflects the gravity of the crimes committed and the need for justice for the victims, whose lives have been profoundly affected by Atkinson’s actions.