In Bolton, Greater Manchester, 30-year-old Adam Degney has been handed a 15-year prison sentence after admitting to a series of sexual offences, including the rape of a young girl from the age of six until she was 13.
Unmasking the Horror
Greater Manchester Police revealed that Degney’s abominable acts were exposed when the young girl confided in a family member, leading to an investigation that uncovered a seven-year period of abuse. The revelations did not end there; a second victim came forward and shared her harrowing experiences of being repeatedly raped by Degney, accompanied by physical and verbal aggression.
The court heard about Degney’s calculated manipulation of his second victim, who endured numerous instances of rape, some while she was asleep. He also threatened her life and relentlessly chipped away at her self-confidence. Degney’s meticulous attempts to conceal his crimes were unraveled when a search of his phone led to the discovery of numerous indecent images and deleted videos recording his abusive acts.
The Unraveling of a Monster
As the extent of Degney’s depravity came to light, he pleaded guilty to three counts of rape of a child under 13, sexual assault of a child, sexual activity with a child, making indecent images of a child, two counts of rape of a female over 16, and two counts of voyeurism.
Detective Constable Stephen Wildman of the Greater Manchester Police described the ordeal as ‘unimaginable’ and expressed relief at Degney’s imprisonment. His sentencing to 15 years in prison and being ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life marks the end of a grueling investigation and the beginning of justice for his victims.
A Plea for Courage
As the case drew to a close, Judge Abigail Hudson emphasized the immeasurable damage inflicted on the child victim and the devastating impact on the adult victim’s confidence and trust in men. In her closing remarks, she praised the victims’ bravery in coming forward and encouraged others to do the same.
Detective Constable Wildman echoed the judge’s sentiments, commending the victims for their courage and reiterating that sexual offences will not be tolerated. He urged other victims to find solace in the outcome of Degney’s case and to seek support from the police or the independent charity Crimestoppers.
With the conclusion of the case, the community of Bolton, Greater Manchester can breathe a collective sigh of relief as justice prevails and a dangerous predator is removed from their midst. The victims, now survivors, can begin to rebuild their lives, knowing that their bravery has not only brought their abuser to justice but has also sent a clear message to others who perpetrate such heinous crimes.
