Man jailed for raping child in Rossendale during 1980s
55-year-old ordered to serve seven years and sign Sex Offenders Register for life
Jacob Atkinson, 55, of Birkdale Road, Anstey, Leicester, has been jailed for seven years after being found guilty of raping and indecently assaulting a child in the 1980s.
The offences occurred in Rossendale and began when the victim was just nine years old. They stopped when Atkinson moved away to attend university. The crimes came to light nearly four decades later when the victim bravely reported what had happened to her husband, the Truth Project, and eventually the police.
Following a trial at Preston Crown Court in April 2025, Atkinson was convicted of rape, indecent assault, and indecency with a child. He was sentenced at the same court today, 30th January, and the judge ordered him to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Decades on, justice comes for the victim
Dave Hindle, from the Major Crime Review Team, commended the victim’s courage in coming forward after so many years.
“Atkinson targeted his vulnerable victim for his own sordid sexual interests,” he said.
“Once he got to his 50s he probably thought he had gotten away with his detestable crimes. However, it’s thanks to the victim’s bravery in reporting these offences to us and then giving evidence in court that a light has been shone on who Atkinson truly is.”
He added: “While it’s not for me to comment on the sentence handed down to Atkinson, I am pleased that the victim finally has justice all these years on.”
Support is available
Lancashire Constabulary encourages anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence to report it online through https://doitonline.lancashire.police.uk/ or call 101. For emergencies, dial 999.
Specialist support for individuals affected by sexual violence is available through Victim Support, which offers confidential, non-judgmental assistance including emotional and practical help. The service is funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw and prioritizes safety and confidentiality. More information can be found at victimsupport.org.uk/lancashire.