Barrow man jailed for rape of young girl in 1996
Steven Monk-Dalton was convicted nearly 30 years after the crime was committed in Cumbria
Last updated 16th Oct 2025
A man who raped a girl in Barrow nearly three decades ago has been jailed for six years.
Steven Monk-Dalton, 56, who previously lived in Barrow and more recently in Ibiza, Spain, was found guilty following a four-day trial at Preston Crown Court.
He was sentenced on 10th October after a jury returned a unanimous verdict just two hours after retiring.
The rape happened in August 1996 and involved one girl, who is now an adult.
Victim praised for bravery after decades-long wait
Investigating officer DC Kate Edkins praised the woman for her resilience during the investigation.
“I’d like to commend the victim in this case, now a woman, for her resilience during the entire investigation,” she said.
“Her bravery has shown that offenders of crimes as serious as this can still be brought to justice, no matter how much time has passed.”
Monk-Dalton was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register.
Police urge other victims to come forward
Cumbria Police said they are committed to investigating sexual offences, no matter how long ago they happened.
DC Edkins added: “I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault or child sexual abuse to contact police so our officers can investigate.
“You can speak with specialist officers with confidence and will be supported throughout any investigation.”