JOHN HILTON SHOCKING SEXUAL ASSAULT IN BURY: MAN AVOIDS JAIL DESPITE CRIME INVOLVING 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL
In a case that has shocked the community of Bury, a 45-year-old man named John Hilton was convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl but has narrowly avoided imprisonment.The incident took place on October 14, 2011, within the girl’s own home, where Hilton was staying as a guest.
The assault occurred in the comfort of her residence, highlighting the disturbing breach of trust and safety.
According to court proceedings, Hilton, residing on Ribble Drive in Bury, was sleeping in the lounge area of the girl’s house during his stay.
The prosecution, led by Adam Lodge, detailed how Hilton had asked the 12-year-old girl to keep him company when she went to fetch a glass of water.
She sat beside him on the sofa, and it was during this moment that Hilton began to behave inappropriately.
He started by rubbing her feet and then moved on to her thighs, before ultimately touching her on the chest.
The girl, overwhelmed and frightened, fled to her bedroom to escape his advances.
She sought refuge under her covers, crying as she tried to process what had happened.
The crime was not reported immediately.
It was only nearly two months later, when the girl expressed her fears that Hilton might be staying over again, that her mother was informed.
This delay in reporting underscores the trauma and confusion often experienced by victims of such abuse.
The girl later received counselling from the NSPCC to help her cope with the emotional aftermath of the assault.
During the trial, Hilton initially denied the allegations.
However, on the day of the court hearing, he admitted to the sexual assault.
The judge presiding over the case, Maureen Roddy, acknowledged the vulnerability of the young victim, stating, “She was a young and vulnerable girl.
You knew her age and her vulnerabilities.” In sentencing, Hilton was given a three-year community order.
This included the requirement to complete a sex offenders’ course.
Additionally, a restraining order was issued, prohibiting him from approaching the victim.
He was also disqualified from working with children and was ordered to register as a sex offender for five years.
Despite the severity of the crime, Hilton was spared a custodial sentence, a decision that has sparked debate and concern within the local community of Bury.
