News

A paedophile has been jailed for a string of sexual offences against a child.

Richard Mawdsley (pictured below) was sentenced at Preston Crown Court yesterday (24^th June)

In December 2020, we were made aware of an allegation of rape by a then teenage girl.

An investigation began, and as part of our enquiries, a dedicated team examined Mawdsley’s phone. Whilst doing that, we uncovered a number of indecent images on his phone, including some taken by cameras he had hidden.

We also found evidence of Mawdsley searching for child pornography sites. In his interview, he attempted to say that he may have clicked on the website by accident.

Following a consultation by the Crown Prosecution Service, Mawdsley, 52 of Heather Bank, Burnley was charged.

Mawdsley pleaded guilty to eight offences, but denied the others he was charged with. Following a trial, a jury found him guilty of a further 12 offences. In total, he was convicted of:

• Four counts of sexual activity with a child

• Four counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity

• Two counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child

• Three counts of voyeurism

• Seven counts of making an indecent image of a child 

He was given a 12 and a half year sentence comprising of eight years and six months in prison, and a further four years on extended license. He was also given a 25 year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and an indefinite restraining order.

DS Amy Tattersall of our Vulnerable Adult team said: “Mawdsley targeted his victim in a calculated and predatory manner, installing hidden cameras and retaining indecent images of children on his phone. His actions clearly demonstrate that he is a paedophile.

"Despite the trauma that the victim experienced, she has shown incredible bravery and courage throughout this process. I hope that she can now move forward with her life, knowing that she was believed and that the offender has been brought to justice.

"I would also urge anyone who may be a victim of a sexual offence to come forward, whether by reporting it to us or by speaking to someone they trust. We will do everything we can to support you and pursue justice."