A man from Northumberland has been sentenced to 15 years at Minshull Street Crown Court after a jury unanimously found him guilty of two counts of rape and eight counts of indecent assault.
Lawrence Skrzydlo aged 52 sexually abused and raped a young girl between the years of 1996 and 2000, after building a trusted relationship with her and her relatives.
The survivor bravely reported the abuse to us in 2021 and disclosed that it began when she was around seven years old, continuing over several years whilst Skrzydlo was in a position of responsibility and trust.
Skrzydlo was a friend of the family, and he used his position to regularly assault and rape a young girl in several different locations, including the building of her own home address.
The survivor’s disclosure to police led to officers launching an investigation into the offender, and ultimately securing a conviction, despite Skrzydlo’s constant denial of the offences.
In a statement shared at court, the survivor said: “Since making that first phone call to the police in 2021, I have gradually found it easier to talk about my experiences.
“I believe it is important that justice is done, no matter how much time has passed. What happened to me should never happen to anyone. I have come forward because I believe it is important that the court understands the lasting impact these actions have had on me.
“This is not my shame to carry. I have done nothing wrong.”
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Peter Smeeton from our Major Incident Team said: “Skrzydlo took advantage of a young girl and thought he could escape justice for crimes committed years ago, but today’s sentence emphasises that offenders can and will be held accountable, no matter how much time has passed.
“The victim showed immense strength and courage from the moment she came forward and reported the abuse she suffered to us.
“Her support has been monumental in ensuring Skrzydlo faces the justice he deserves, and I hope this sentencing can provide her with some closure.
“I would urge anyone who believes they were assaulted, abused or raped to please come forward and report this to our officers – no matter when the offences occurred.
“Your reports will always be treated incredibly seriously and will help us put a dangerous offender behind bars.”
