Jail for Shropshire man who sexually abused children
A man from Shropshire has been sentenced to 12 years and six months in prison for sexual offences against children, including rape.
Brian Learmonth, aged 59 and of Poynton Road, Shawbury, was sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court today.
He pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing on Thursday 13 October 2014, to three counts of rape, one of indecent assault, one of taking indecent photographs and one of possession of and distribution of indecent photographs.
Learmonth is required to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life and if released will be subject to a Sexual Offence Prevention Order restricting future contact with children.
He abused five girls on numerous occasions between the late 1980s and mid 1990s while he was resident in Shrewsbury.
Detective Constable Sarah Smither from Shrewsbury CID said:
“It has taken many years for Learmonth’s victims to contact the police.
“I would like to commend them for their courage in coming forward to report the offences to the police and for placing their trust in the judicial system.
“I hope today’s sentencing goes some way to helping his victims come to terms with what they have been through.”
Detective Inspector Mark Bellamy, who led the investigation team in Shrewsbury, said:
“This has been a lengthy investigation, which took a huge amount of time and effort to get to the point where Learmonth has finally been brought to justice.
“We work closely with other agencies to ensure victims of sexual abuse are given all the support possible.
“I would like to reassure anyone who has been or is a victim of child abuse, that they can contact the police and that they will be treated in a caring and sensitive manner. Together with our partner agencies, will give them all the support we can and where possible prosecute those responsible.”
