JOHN BLACKTOP FLEEING MORECAMBE CHURCH ORGANTIST ON THE RUN AFTER SEX CRIMES IN LANCASTER AND STOCKTON-ON-TEES

In a case that has shocked the local community and garnered widespread media attention, John Blacktop, an 81-year-old man from Morecambe, Lancashire, has become a fugitive after failing to appear in court to face serious charges related to decades-old sexual offenses. The allegations against Blacktop involve the abuse of five young girls, aged between five and 14, during the 1960s and 1970s in the towns of Lancaster and Stockton-on-Tees in Cleveland.

Blacktop, who was also known for his role as a church organist at Christ Church on Wyresdale Road in Lancaster, was implicated in a series of heinous crimes that took place over a span of years. Some of the abuse reportedly occurred within the church premises between 1974 and 1977, adding a layer of betrayal to the allegations. His involvement in the community as a choirmaster and organist had previously made him a respected figure, but these accusations have cast a dark shadow over his reputation.

In 2016, Lancashire Police initiated a cold case review that led to Blacktop’s arrest and subsequent charging. He faced a total of 36 counts, including 33 counts of indecent assault, one count of rape, and one count of attempted rape. Despite the gravity of the charges, Blacktop chose to evade justice by failing to attend his trial at Bradford Crown Court, where he was scheduled to be present for proceedings. His absence resulted in a conviction in his absence, with a sentence of 21 years in prison handed down last month.

Following his failure to appear, authorities issued a public appeal for information, and Blacktop was subsequently spotted in various locations, including Blackpool and Cleveleys. On April 8, he finally surrendered himself at Blackpool Police Station. In addition to the 21-year sentence for his sexual offenses, he received a six-month jail term for failing to surrender, with both sentences to run concurrently. His arrest marked a significant development in a case that has haunted the community for years.

Prior to his arrest, Blacktop was believed to have been staying in Nottingham during the trial period. His last known sighting was at Bradford Crown Court around 2 pm on a Wednesday, but recent reports indicate he was seen walking along Oxford Road in Manchester at approximately 11 am on a Friday. Witnesses described him as wearing a dark green blazer and a burgundy shirt, carrying a large green suitcase. This sighting has prompted a renewed effort by police to locate him, with officers checking CCTV footage and coordinating with Greater Manchester Police.

Police officials have expressed concern not only about his flight from justice but also about his well-being. Inspector Phil Jones stated, “While Mr. Blacktop is wanted for failing to appear at court, we are also concerned for his welfare and I would appeal to anyone who sees him, or knows where he may be, to get in touch. I would also appeal to Mr. Blacktop himself to contact us if he sees this appeal.” The investigation continues as authorities work tirelessly to bring this case to a close and ensure justice for the victims, who have had to relive their traumatic experiences through testimony and evidence presented during the trial.