Their cases serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sexual abuse on victims and the ongoing work of law enforcement and the justice system to protect communities and bring offenders to account.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a sexual offence report it online via https://doitonline.lancashire.police.uk/ or call 101.
17. David Hawkyard
David Hawkyard was caught with indecent images of children after his suspicious behaviour raised concerns with police. Hawkyard, 24, of Lady Acre, Bamber Bridge, was sentenced to 21 months in prison. | Lancashire Police
18. Joshua Adcroft
Joshua Adcroft, 32, who also uses the name Joshua Everitt, groomed an 11-year-old girl before going on to sexually assault her. Adcroft, formerly of Lower Antley Street, Accrington, but now of no fixed address, was jailed for 14 years. | Lancashire Police
19. Thomas Freret
Thomas Freret, 39, groomed a 12-year-old victim for sexualised chats, pictures and videos before telling them to delete the messages in a bid to cover his tracks. Freret, who lived at an address in Elche, Spain, until his arrest in 2024, was jailed for six years. | Lancashire Police
20. Joseph Chapman
Joseph Chapman groomed and sexually assaulted two 14-year-old girls in Burnley. Joseph Chapman, 36, of Lydgate, Burnley, was jailed for 11 years and three months. | Lancashire Police