MICHAEL HARVEY FROM FULWOOD SENTENCED FOR CHILD RAPE ATTEMPT IN PRESTON

In March 2022, a devastating case of childhood sexual abuse came to light involving a woman who has since been left shattered by her experiences. The woman, who was just eight years old at the time, endured a series of heinous acts committed by Michael Harvey, a man residing on Lulworth Road in Fulwood, Preston. The court heard that Harvey made an attempt to assault her sexually while she was sleeping, an incident that marked the beginning of a prolonged period of abuse.

Over the following four years, Harvey subjected the young girl to multiple sexual assaults, actions that left her feeling physically and emotionally sick. Her suffering was compounded by the fact that she felt unable to speak out for many years, a silence driven by fear, shame, and confusion. It was only after considerable time that she found the courage to report her ordeal to authorities.

Michael Harvey, aged 47, was brought before Preston Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to several charges related to his abuse of the girl. His admissions included attempted rape of a child under 13 and six counts of sexual assault, illustrating a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior. Harvey’s residence on Lulworth Road in Fulwood was identified as the place where these crimes took place.

Judge Richard Gioserano, presiding over the case, sentenced Harvey to a total of ten years in prison, with an additional year on extended licence following his release. The judge emphasized the long-standing nature of Harvey’s misconduct, noting that the victim had waited many years before coming forward. He remarked, “You thought you could get away with it because children often don’t tell and feel unable to tell for many years – often overcome with fear, shame, and confusion.”

During the sentencing, the judge highlighted that Harvey’s abuse was not an isolated incident but a sustained pattern of exploitation that occurred over several years, from the girl’s age of eight until she was twelve. “You corrupted and distorted her childhood, and she is still paying the price for the sexual gratification you obtained from it,” he stated.

In a heartfelt victim impact statement, the woman described her ongoing struggles with trauma. She expressed feelings of loneliness, stating, “I find it hard to cope with anything around me and I just feel like I am on my own all the time, with no-one to talk to. It’s like I am completely alone.” She further revealed that her life feels as if it is falling apart, describing her existence as more of mere survival than living. The statement conveyed her deep sense of worthlessness and her tendency to isolate herself, often staying in her room and avoiding leaving the house.

Harvey, in an attempt to show remorse, wrote a letter to the court admitting his guilt. However, during an earlier interview with a probation officer, it was revealed that he had tried to minimize the extent of his offending. The judge acknowledged this, expressing hope that with time and support, the victim might find some relief from her pain.

In addition to his prison sentence, Harvey was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was made subject to indefinite notification requirements, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the lasting impact on his victim, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding children from such predatory individuals in the Preston area.