East Lancs paedophile who sexually abused two young girls given lengthy jail sentence

A predatory paedophile from East Lancashire who sexually abused two young girls has been jailed for 26 years.

Michael Hines, 82, of Coates Avenue, Barnoldswick has been convicted of multiple sexual offences following a trial at Burnley Crown Court last year.

Hines was convicted of multiple offences including rape of a girl under 13 and assaulting a girl under 13 by touching. Hines carried out his sexual abuse in the Barnoldswick area in the early 2000s.

He was sentenced to a total of 26 years in custody.

In a victim personal statement, one of the victims said: “It is hard to explain how deeply this has damaged me, because the effects have touched every part of who I am. What happened to me didn’t just end when the abuse stopped. It has changed the entire course of my life. Emotionally and mentally, I have been left carrying pain that was never mine to carry.”

Detective Constable Hannah Tofalos of Lancashire Police’s East Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Department said: “Michael Hines is a dangerous paedophile who preyed on his vulnerable victims and subjected them to abhorrent abuse, the seriousness of which is reflected in his lengthy custodial sentence.

“I want to commend the victims who have shown immense bravery in coming forward to report these crimes and throughout the court process. While no sentence can ever undo the trauma caused, we hope this result offers them a sense of justice as they continue on with their recovery.

“Lancashire Constabulary remain committed to bringing the perpetrators of sexual abuse to justice, regardless of how long ago the offences took place. I 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 or someone you know has been the victim of a sexual offence report it online via https://doitonline.lancashire.police.uk/ or call 101. You should do so knowing you will be believed, you will be listened to, and we will do everything in our power to put the perpetrator before the courts.

Specialist support for anyone in Lancashire affected by sexual violence is available through Victim Support. Funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, their specially trained professionals offer free, confidential, and non-judgemental support. They listen, provide emotional and practical help, and prioritise safety and confidentiality. Further information is available at victimsupport.org.uk/lancashire