'Dangerous sexual predator' from Thornton jailed for 11 years for child sex offences in Blackpool

Richard McAdam, 60, was arrested in August 2017 after a victim came forward to police to report she had been raped by McAdam in 2001 when she was 12-years-old.

Another victim who said she had been indecently assaulted as a child by McAdam between 1995 and 2000 was also identified by police.

Officers launched an investigation and McAdam was summoned to appear at court where he pleaded not guilty.

Following a trial in December he was convicted of 20 sexual offences, including four offences of sexual assault, four offences of rape, two offences of assaulting a child by penetration and ten offences of sexual activity with a child.

McAdam, of Rixton Grove, Thornton, was sentenced to 11 years in prison.

DC Ryder-Jones, of Lancashire Police, said: "Richard McAdam is a dangerous sexual predator and this sentence reflects the gravity of his crimes.

"He abused the victims, both vulnerable girls, to satisfy his own depraved sexual desires. The victims suffered in silence for many years before reporting the abuse to police. We commend their bravery in supporting the investigation and subsequent trial.

“Lancashire Constabulary remains committed to investigating offences of this nature, no matter how historic, and no matter what the role, position and status of the alleged offender."

“We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to come forward safe in the knowledge that they will be treated sensitively and professionally.”

If you have been the victim of a serious sexual assault report it to police by calling 101.

Remember in an emergency or if a crime is taking place always ring 999.

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