BOLTON GARAGE OWNER JAILED FOR INDECENT ASSAULT ON TEENAGE GIRL
Keith Knowles, aged 60, who owns an MOT station on Hanover Street, Bolton, was sentenced to 12 months in jail and ordered to register as a sex offender for 10 years after being convicted of indecently assaulting a teenage girl.The incident occurred when the girl was invited to stay over at a family friend's house, where Knowles entered her bedroom and indecently assaulted her.
The court heard that Knowles immediately left the room after the assault, which took place when he believed the girl was asleep.
The prosecution stated that the girl was so affected by the incident that she took 20 painkillers and expressed a desire to die.
Knowles admitted that he went into the bedroom and touched the girl on the stomach but claimed his actions were motivated by concerns that the girls might have been engaged in lesbian activity, as he thought he was checking if they were naked or clothed.
Judge Roberts described the offense as a gross breach of trust and expressed hope that the sentence would serve as a deterrent.
The court also considered Knowles's previously good character and his efforts to build his business, which has now been forced to close down, acknowledging the devastating impact of the conviction on his family.
Supporters and family members protested his innocence after sentencing, while the victim's father emphasized that their primary concern is the safety of their daughter.
