Blackpool man jailed for sexually abusing young girls

A Blackpool man has been jailed for 15 years for sexually abusing young girls.

Rodney Dinsmore (pictured),78, of Park Road, Blackpool sexually assaulted his three victims when they were just children and teenagers.

Dinsmore’s crimes were reported to us in 2017, and an investigation was launched.

Dinsmore was convicted of 18 offences, including: inciting a child to commit an act of gross indecency, indecent assault on a female under 14, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, sexual activity with a child under 13, inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity and sexual activity with a child under 17. He was found guilty by a jury following a trial in November 2023.

At Preston Crown Court this week, (January 30, 2024), Dinsmore was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, and given a three-year extended licence period. He was also made to sign the sex offenders register indefinitely and was issued with a sexual harm prevention order. 

Detective Chief Inspector Lee Wilson, of Lancashire Constabulary’s Force Major Investigation Team said: “I want to begin by thanking and praising the victims for their bravery throughout this incredibly distressing time. They have shown such courage and resilience in reporting Dinsmore’s despicable crimes, and I am pleased that they have received justice.

“Dinsmore chose to sexually assault his three victims. He and his crimes are nothing short of disgusting and abhorrent. I welcome the lengthy custodial sentence handed down on him today, and I hope that this sends a clear message: we will find you, we will catch you, and we will bring you to justice.

“Speaking out was incredibly brave of Dinsmore’s victims. If you, or someone you know have been the victim of a sexual offence, I urge you to get in contact with the police. Please be assured that we will investigate it professionally and sensitively.”