KENNETH RUSHWORTH FROM STRETFORD SENTENCED FOR HISTORIC SEX ABUSE IN MANCHESTER

In July 2013, Kenneth Rushworth, a resident of Coniston Road in Stretford, was formally convicted and sentenced for serious historical sexual offenses. Rushworth, born on August 11, 1941, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including four counts of indecent assault, acts of indecency with a minor, and causing actual bodily harm to his victims.

These charges stemmed from abusive acts committed over a period spanning from 1972 to 1978. The victims, who were young girls at the time, endured a traumatic ordeal at the hands of Rushworth during their adolescence. The gravity of his crimes was recognized in the courtroom, where on Friday, July 19, 2013, at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, he received a custodial sentence totaling four and a half years. Additionally, he was mandated to register as a sex offender, a measure intended to monitor and prevent further offenses.

Detective Constable Rachel Di Nicola, speaking on behalf of Greater Manchester Police, expressed her support for the victims and emphasized the importance of justice. She stated, “The three victims suffered abuse at the hands of Rushworth between 1972 and 1978. Two of the victims were just teenage girls when the abuse started. It is very brave of them to have come forward after this many years, and now they will be able to hopefully get closure for these events and progress with their lives.”

She further highlighted the significance of the sentence, noting, “The length of the sentence reflects the serious nature of the offences committed.” Di Nicola acknowledged the emotional struggles faced by victims of such crimes, remarking, “I understand that victims often feel that the easiest thing to do is simply try and forget about the past and keep their experiences bottled up. But you can never really shake off what has happened, while the person who carries out this offending often lives a normal, free life. Bringing that person to justice is often the only way for victims to truly move on.”

Greater Manchester Police reaffirmed their commitment to investigating historic abuse cases thoroughly. They assured the public that victims can come forward confidently, knowing that specially trained officers are available to support them through the criminal justice process. For those seeking help, St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester can be contacted at 0161 276 6515. The center offers comprehensive forensic, counseling, and medical services around the clock, accessible either through self-referral or via police assistance, ensuring victims receive the necessary support to begin healing.