PAUL MCGUFFOG SHOCKS TRAFFORD AND MANCHESTER WITH SEXUAL ABUSE SCANDAL

In October 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Paul McGuffog, a man with a background in law enforcement and a prominent cricket coach, who was convicted of heinous sexual offenses committed in Trafford. The case revealed a dark chapter in his life, hidden behind years of otherwise commendable service, which was finally brought to light during a court trial.

McGuffog, aged 61 at the time, was sentenced to six years in prison after a jury found him guilty of multiple counts related to the sexual abuse of a young girl. The Manchester Crown Court heard how the abuse took place over a period of several weeks, with the victim, who was under 16 at the time, attending a local youth centre regularly and forming a close relationship with McGuffog, who was involved in running the facility.

According to court proceedings, McGuffog, who helped operate a tuck shop at the youth centre, would often offer the girl free coffee and crisps, asking her to keep their interactions secret. The jury was told that he later took advantage of her trust by driving her to secluded areas in his car, where the sexual abuse occurred. The court found him guilty of six counts of indecent assault, one count of attempted buggery, and misconduct in a public office.

The sexual misconduct was said to have lasted over several weeks, with McGuffog denying the allegations throughout the trial. Despite his denials, the jury convicted him based on the evidence presented. During sentencing, Judge Alan Conrad QC remarked on McGuffog’s background, noting that until his retirement a decade earlier, he had served the police with distinction. However, the judge emphasized that a 'dark secret' from his past, linked to his role at the social club, had now come to light.

Judge Conrad described how McGuffog exploited his status and greater sophistication to manipulate and seduce an impressionable and vulnerable young girl, describing his actions as a 'terrible fall from grace.' The court also heard a victim impact statement read by prosecutor Brian Berlyne, in which the young woman expressed her feelings of betrayal and the profound impact the abuse had on her life.

In her statement, she described how McGuffog had 'dumped' her and 'used her like a piece of c**p,' and expressed relief that the jury believed her. She shared her struggles prior to the abuse, including issues with depression and trouble with the police, revealing how her trust in others had been shattered. Her words underscored the lasting damage caused by McGuffog’s actions.

Beyond his involvement in the youth centre, McGuffog was also known as a cricket coach in the Trafford area. His defense lawyer, David Wood, described him as 'uniquely gifted' in his coaching role and emphasized that he had not behaved inappropriately before or after the offences. Mr. Wood highlighted that McGuffog was considered a 'rock' for his family and that the support from friends and family in the court gallery reflected how out of character these offences were.

Despite his positive reputation, McGuffog was ordered to sign the sex offender register for life, and the court mandated his registration as a sex offender. He was also ordered to reside at his address on Barton Road, Stretford, Trafford, as part of his sentence. The case has left a lasting scar on the community, prompting ongoing discussions about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable young people from abuse.