JOHN FRANKLIN FROM BRIGHOUSE AND NELSON SENTENCED TO FIVE YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRL

In October 2014, a disturbing case emerged involving a 63-year-old man named John Franklin, who has been convicted and sentenced to five years in prison for the sexual abuse and grooming of a young schoolgirl. Franklin, originally from Brighouse and now residing in Pendle View, Nelson, pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to his inappropriate conduct towards the minor, who is protected by legal restrictions from being identified.

Franklin’s history includes previous convictions for indecent exposure, which added to the severity of his current crimes. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Franklin engaged in a calculated grooming process, which involved giving the girl money and offering her cash in exchange for sex. The girl, however, refused his advances. The court heard that Franklin’s actions were part of a pattern of predatory behavior, and his manipulative tactics aimed to exploit the vulnerability of the young victim.

Throughout the court case, Franklin publicly expressed remorse through his legal representative, Barrister Adam Birkby. Franklin, who suffers from Parkinson’s Disease, has a right hand that shakes uncontrollably, a symptom of his condition. In his apology, Franklin described his crimes as “despicable,” acknowledging the gravity of his actions. Birkby emphasized that, despite the apology, it might seem somewhat hollow given the circumstances, but he assured the court that Franklin was genuinely remorseful and deeply ashamed of what he had done.

Judge Jonathan Durhan Hall QC noted that Franklin’s guilty pleas had spared the young girl from the trauma of giving evidence in court. The judge initially considered a sentence of seven-and-a-half years but acknowledged Franklin’s early guilty plea, which merited a reduction. Consequently, Franklin was sentenced to five years in prison. Upon release, Franklin will be required to register as a sex offender with the police and will be subject to a lifelong sexual offences prevention order, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to prevent further harm.

This case highlights the serious consequences of grooming and sexual abuse, especially involving minors. Franklin’s conviction underscores the importance of justice for victims and the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior.