Harrogate man sentenced to 13 years in prison for assaulting young girl
John William Marshall abused a young girl in Northallerton in the 1990s
A serial sex offender's been sentenced to 13 years in prison for assaulting a young girl in Northallerton during the 1990s.
68 year old John William Marshall from Fairfax Avenue in Harrogate, was sentenced at York Crown Court after being found guilty at a trial held in August.
Police say his victim contacted them in 2019 - after Marshall was convicted for possessing more than 24,000 indecent images of children.
The court heard how Marshall befriended the girls family and was trusted to look after her while they went shopping - but that was when he carried out his attacks.
The victim’s parents reported it to police and social services at the time, but no further criminal action was taken due to a series of complications.
Now an adult, the victim’s life had been overshadowed by the thought that she was not believed.
"Sadly we believe there could be further victims"
Adam Harland, Cold Case Review Manager at North Yorkshire Police, said:
“In coming forward, the victim has now had her voice heard, her evidence believed by a jury, and she has obtained the conviction of the man who had grossly and indecently abused her as a child.
“Sadly, we believe there could be further victims of Marshall out there. We urge them to get in touch, just like the courageous victim in this case has.
“As you can see, time is no barrier to getting justice for victims of child sexual abuse.
"If you have been the victim of sexual abuse, whether it is happening now or in the past, please contact the police.”
“We appreciate that telling the police what has happened takes immense courage and it is never easy reliving extremely distressing experiences.
“We understand this and that’s why we have specially trained officers who will guide you every step of the way and provide access to the full range of professional support services that are readily available.
“In coming forward, we can get you the help you need and ensure offenders like Marshall cannot go on to hurt anyone else.”