JOHN GREENWOOD SENTENCED IN HIGHTOWN FOR ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS

In February 2017, John Greenwood, a man from Hightown, was sentenced to 13 years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences committed against two young girls. Greenwood, aged 62 at the time of sentencing, had a history of abusing his victims during the 1970s and 1980s, engaging in a prolonged and systematic campaign of grooming that caused lasting damage to their lives.

Greenwood, who resided on St George’s Road in Hightown, denied all allegations during his trial at Liverpool Crown Court. Despite his denials, the court found him guilty of 17 counts of sexual misconduct, including one count of attempted rape and numerous indecent assaults. The conviction was the result of a detailed investigation into his actions, which spanned over a decade and involved the exploitation of vulnerable young girls.

During the court proceedings, one of Greenwood’s victims delivered an emotional statement, describing the profound impact of his abuse. She expressed her inability to comprehend how someone could inflict such harm on a child, revealing that she now struggles with eating disorders, nightmares, and difficulties in forming meaningful relationships. She also recounted her fear during the abuse, stating she was too frightened to say ‘no’ to Greenwood, which left her with no happy childhood memories.

Throughout the hearing, Greenwood displayed a dismissive attitude, shaking his head in the dock as the victim spoke. His supporters, some of whom were observed laughing and joking in the public gallery, were warned by court police to maintain decorum. Despite Greenwood’s continued denial of the offences, the court recognized the severity of his actions and the lasting harm caused to his victims.

Judge Robert Warnock addressed the court, emphasizing the nature of Greenwood’s crimes. He described the offences as part of a sustained campaign of grooming and sexual assault targeting prepubescent girls. The judge highlighted the evident damage inflicted, including the destruction of childhood innocence, the difficulty in establishing relationships, and the erosion of self-worth. He commended the victims for their bravery in coming forward and emphasized that Greenwood’s supporters’ refusal to accept his guilt did not diminish the victims’ suffering.

In sentencing Greenwood, Judge Warnock stated that he detected no remorse or insight from the defendant, suggesting he remained in denial about his actions. Greenwood was sentenced to 13 years in prison, with an additional year on licence, reflecting his status as a particularly concerning offender. The judge made it clear that Greenwood would serve at least half of his custodial term and would only be released when a parole board determines he no longer poses a risk to the public.

As Greenwood was led away to begin his sentence, he gave a thumbs up to his supporters in the courtroom. He is also required to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities following his release.