MICHAEL HARVEY FROM BACUP SENTENCED TO NEARLY FIVE YEARS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON YOUNG GIRL IN PRESTON

In October 2017, a man from Bacup was handed a substantial prison sentence after being convicted of serious sexual offences involving a young girl. Michael William Harvey, aged 60 and residing on Rockcliffe Lane in Bacup, was found guilty following an eight-day trial held at Preston Crown Court. The court heard harrowing details of his misconduct, which included multiple instances of sexual assault and abuse directed at a minor.

Harvey was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a child and committing sexual assault. The court was informed that his actions included groping the girl’s bottom, chest, groin, and stomach. Additionally, he removed her clothing in an apparent attempt to humiliate her, actions that caused significant distress and trauma to the victim.

The prosecution presented evidence that Harvey had sent text messages to the girl in which he attempted to flatter her, describing her as “hot,” “seriously gorgeous,” “stunning,” “very attractive,” and “sexy.” These messages were part of a pattern of grooming behavior that aimed to manipulate and demean the young victim.

It was also revealed that Harvey had asked the girl for a hug, which he then exploited to carry out the sexual assault. The court was told that these acts were not isolated incidents but part of a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior.

During the trial, prosecutor Emma Kehoe highlighted that when Harvey was arrested and interviewed by police, he denied any wrongdoing. He described himself as a “touchy feely kind of person,” attempting to justify his actions with what the court considered to be nonsensical excuses. However, Judge Philip Parry dismissed these claims, stating that the jury found Harvey’s explanations to be “nonsense” and that his conduct was “far more sinister than that.”

Judge Parry emphasized the severity of Harvey’s actions, describing his behavior as “reprehensible” and noting the profound impact it had on the victim. In sentencing, the judge expressed disappointment in Harvey’s continued denial of the offences, criticizing his claim that the touching was merely “playfulness.”

Harvey’s defense lawyer, Joanna Rodikis, acknowledged that no further comments could be made regarding the facts of the case. She described Harvey as a “highly considered” individual in other aspects of his life and noted that he has always been industrious. Nonetheless, she recognized that the prison sentence would have a significant impact on him.

Ultimately, the court sentenced Michael Harvey to four years and nine months in prison, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the need for justice for the young girl affected by his actions.