JONATHON ARMSTRONG FROM FARNWORTH SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD RAPE IN HIS FILTHY FLAT

In May 2023, a disturbing case unfolded involving Jonathon Armstrong, a 38-year-old man from Farnworth, who was convicted of subjecting a young girl to repeated acts of sexual abuse and rape within his own home. The court heard harrowing details about the conditions of his residence on Longcauseway, which was described as a truly appalling environment filled with the stench of animal and human faeces.

When police officers arrived at Armstrong’s flat to arrest him, they were met with a scene that shocked even seasoned law enforcement personnel. Prosecutor Andrea Lock detailed the state of the property, emphasizing the overwhelming unpleasantness of the environment. The flat was littered with rubbish, and officers discovered bottles of urine along with buckets containing both animal and human faeces, indicating a severe neglect of hygiene and cleanliness. The officers’ reaction underscored the disturbing nature of the scene, which appeared to have been neglected for a significant period.

Armstrong’s arrest was prompted by allegations that he had been abusing and raping a young girl at his residence. During the investigation, it was revealed that on at least one occasion, Armstrong had recorded a video of himself engaging in sexual acts with the girl on a tablet device. This evidence added to the gravity of the charges against him.

Following his arrest, Armstrong was taken into custody and questioned by police. During the interview, he chose to answer questions with a silence of 'no comment,' providing no immediate indication of his guilt or innocence. When brought before magistrates, he did not enter a plea. However, during the subsequent proceedings at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, Armstrong ultimately pleaded guilty to charges of raping and sexually assaulting the young girl.

Judge Bernadette Baxter acknowledged that Armstrong had earned some credit for his conduct and noted that he led a largely isolated and inadequate life. Nonetheless, she did not shy away from describing the scene at his flat as truly appalling, emphasizing the filth and neglect present. The judge also pointed out that Armstrong’s behavior was clearly wrong from the outset, despite any remorse he may have shown.

Addressing the defendant directly, Judge Baxter highlighted the profound impact of his actions on his victim, stating that he had 'robbed her of her childhood.' She underscored the severity of the crime and the lasting harm inflicted.

In sentencing, Armstrong was handed a total term of 14 years and nine months in prison. Additionally, he was subjected to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and notification requirements, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the public from further harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of such abuse and the importance of justice for victims.