RICHARD GRAHAM RAMSBOTTOM EXPOSES HIMSELF TO YOUNG GIRLS IN BURY, SALFORD, AND LANCS

In a disturbing series of incidents spanning just a few hours, Richard Graham, a 30-year-old man from Ramsbottom, caused significant distress and trauma to three young girls across different locations in Greater Manchester and Lancashire. The sequence of events unfolded in January 2020, leaving a trail of fear and outrage among the victims and their families.

Prosecutors detailed that the first incident occurred around 3pm in Tottington, where Graham was observed driving a black Audi. He then exited the vehicle and approached a 12-year-old girl, exposing himself in front of her. The girl was pushed into an alley by Graham, but she managed to escape by boarding a bus. In her statement, she recounted her terror, saying, “I tried to scream but my voice would not come out.” She further revealed that she did not sleep for weeks following the ordeal.

Just two hours later, at approximately 5pm, Graham was in Salford, where he again exposed himself, this time to a 13-year-old girl. Her father, who was nearby, took note of Graham’s vehicle details and promptly relayed this information to the police, aiding in the subsequent investigation.

Later that evening, shortly before 8pm, Graham was spotted in Padiham, Lancashire, where he targeted a 14-year-old girl. She reacted swiftly by running into a nearby shop, prompting the police to be called to the scene. Law enforcement officers tracked Graham’s car back to his residence in Ramsbottom, Bury.

All three victims were able to identify Graham during a video identity procedure, confirming his involvement in the incidents. Prosecutor Jane Dagnall highlighted that Graham had a prior conviction for a similar offence last year, indicating a troubling pattern of behaviour.

A psychological assessment presented to the court described Graham as an ‘exhibitionist’ and suggested that his actions were driven by an adrenaline rush. The pre-sentence report further indicated that his offending was sexually motivated, emphasizing the predatory nature of his behaviour.

During sentencing, Judge John Edwards emphasized the profound impact of Graham’s actions. He stated that the victims had suffered ‘significant and enduring trauma,’ and their families experienced considerable distress. The judge criticized Graham for his lack of remorse, noting that he had denied any sexual motivation, claiming instead that his actions were driven by a need for an adrenaline rush. Judge Edwards described the offences as planned and predatory, targeting teenage girls over a prolonged period.

Graham, who resides on Bolton Road North in Ramsbottom, was sentenced to 15 months in prison. Additionally, he will be required to sign the sex offender register for a period of ten years, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.