A Gloucestershire man has been jailed for more than seven years after being found guilty of raping an 11-year-old girl while in a position of trust in the early 2000s.
Victim Finally Gets Justice After 20 Years
Andrew Shore, 37, of Croome Gardens in Bourton-On-The-Water, was sentenced to seven years and three months at Manchester Crown Square Court on Wednesday, March 26. He was convicted last month of raping a girl under 13 and indecent assault following a unanimous verdict.
The abuse took place in Rochdale when Shore was just 16. The victim, now an adult, came forward after carrying the trauma with her for more than two decades.
‘Profound Impact on Victim’s Life’
Greater Manchester Police praised the woman for her strength in finally reporting what had happened to her. Detective Constable Russell Clarke said Shore’s actions had a lasting effect on the victim’s life, saying: “She has carried this with her for many years.”
He added: “Shore betrayed and violated the trust of those who left him in charge of an 11-year-old child. His conviction has provided the victim with some comfort and peace after a long and painful journey.”
Shore Refused to Take Responsibility
During the investigation and trial, Shore refused to admit his crimes. Instead, he forced the victim to relive her ordeal and even tried to shift blame onto members of her family. Clarke called his behaviour “callous,” adding that Shore changed his account several times in an attempt to evade justice.
The judge also imposed a restraining order against the victim and placed Shore on the sex offenders register for life.
‘Never Too Late to Speak Out’
The case highlights the importance of reporting historic abuse, no matter how much time has passed. GMP confirmed that the victim used the force’s online system to report the crime.
