MICHAEL ACKROYD FROM KEIGHLEY SENTENCED FOR WICKED SEXUAL ABUSE IN BRADFORD
In a case that has shocked the community of Keighley and the wider Bradford area, Michael Ackroyd, a 38-year-old man, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of heinous crimes involving the sexual exploitation of a vulnerable young girl.The court heard that Ackroyd, who resides on South Street in Keighley, engaged in a calculated and malicious campaign of abuse that spanned over a decade.
According to the court proceedings, Ackroyd was convicted by a jury on Thursday of raping the young girl on two separate occasions and subjecting her to indecent assault more than ten years ago.
The judge overseeing the case, Peter Benson, described Ackroyd’s actions as “sinister and disturbing,” emphasizing the manipulative tactics he employed to isolate the victim emotionally before committing the assaults.
During the sentencing at Bradford Crown Court, Judge Benson detailed how Ackroyd played mind games to silence the girl and make her feel alone and helpless.
The judge condemned the abuse as “calculated and wicked exploitation of a vulnerable child,” highlighting the predatory nature of Ackroyd’s conduct.
The court was told that Ackroyd, who stood in the dock with his head bowed, used psychological manipulation to control the victim for his own gratification.
Judge Benson also pointed out that Ackroyd showed no remorse throughout the proceedings and continued to lie about his actions until the end.
As part of his sentence, Ackroyd was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life and was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which explicitly prohibits him from having unsupervised contact with children.
Following the case, Detective Constable Claire Smith from the Eccleshill Child and Public Protection unit issued a statement emphasizing the importance of victims coming forward.
She said, “It takes a great deal of courage for victims to speak out about sexual abuse, and we hope today’s result will encourage other victims to find the strength to report their experiences.” She reassured the public that the police will treat all reports with sensitivity and thoroughness, regardless of how much time has passed.
Detective Constable Smith also reaffirmed the police’s commitment to pursuing justice, stating, “The conviction of Ackroyd sends a clear message that West Yorkshire Police will pursue prosecution against offenders, even many years after the crimes have been committed.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect children and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of the passage of time.
