PETER WYNN FROM NORTHWICH AND WIGAN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Northwich and Wigan, Peter Wynn, a 69-year-old man, has been sentenced to serve five and a half years in prison for the sexual abuse of a young girl aged just 14. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Wynn's actions and the subsequent impact on the victim.

Wynn, who was known to have lived aboard a barge that frequently traveled between Northwich and Wigan, was found guilty of engaging in sexual misconduct with the girl, whom he had come to know in late 2003. His health was reported to be in poor condition at the time, which added a layer of complexity to his case. The court heard that Wynn’s relationship with the girl and her family was established over a period of time, during which he gained their trust.

In March of the following year, the girl’s family reported Wynn missing. It was later discovered that Wynn had been admitted to the Countess of Chester Hospital, where he was found suffering from a mental breakdown. During his stay at the hospital, Wynn confided in a nurse about his inappropriate conduct with the girl, revealing the extent of his misconduct. His mental health deteriorated further when he was transferred to another medical facility, where he attempted to take his own life. During this attempt, Wynn again disclosed details of his indecent behavior to a nurse, which led to his arrest.

Upon arrest, Wynn did not deny the allegations. He admitted to molesting the girl and encouraging her to perform a lewd act on him. His guilty plea covered charges of oral rape and sexual touching, which occurred between December 31, 2004, and March 9 of the following year. Wynn, who was identified as having no fixed address at the time, expressed remorse for his actions during the court proceedings.

His defense attorney, Eric Lamb, explained that Wynn’s confessions to medical staff were driven by his inability to cope with the guilt and shame of his actions. Wynn suffers from several serious health issues, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart problems, and joint difficulties, which significantly reduce his life expectancy. Mr. Lamb stated that Wynn was unable to provide a clear explanation for his behavior.

Judge David Aubrey, QC, delivered the sentence, emphasizing the profound and lasting damage inflicted upon the young girl. The judge remarked that the emotional scars left by Wynn’s actions are incalculable and noted the drastic change in the girl’s behavior at school following the abuse. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of the crime and the need to protect vulnerable minors from such predatory behavior.