Full Breakdown
Lancashire Butcher John Priestley Sentenced for Historic Sexual Abuse
6/18/2026, 1:37:42 AM
Conviction and Sentencing
John Priestley, 83, was convicted at Preston Crown Court of seven indecent assault counts and sentenced to three years and six months in prison, with placement on the sex offender register.
Background & Context
The assaults occurred in the early 1970s in Croston, a village near Chorley in Lancashire. At the time, John Priestley was a well-known butcher, a position that gave him regular contact with local families.
Timeline of Events
Early 1970s: Priestley assaulted two girls, aged 11 and 13, in Croston.
2022: a survivor reported the abuse to Lancashire Police.
Police investigated, consulted the Crown Prosecution Service, and summoned Priestley.
The case proceeded at Preston Crown Court, resulting in conviction and sentencing on a Monday.
Key Figures
John Priestley – defendant; two female victims; Detective Constable Will Hogan – lead investigator; Lancashire Police; Crown Prosecution Service; Preston Crown Court.
Victims' Accounts
One survivor said the abuse dominates her thoughts and altered her parenting and marriage. The second survivor said the abuse has affected her husband, children and grandchildren, and that she cannot stop thinking about it.
Official Statements & Responses
Lancashire Police said the 2022 complaint led to a full investigation and that the Crown Prosecution Service pursued charges. Detective Constable Will Hogan noted Priestley used his community standing to appear respectable. The court’s judgment reflected the seriousness of the historic offences.
Impact
The case shows that historic sexual offences can still be prosecuted, emphasizing the importance of reporting and the lasting effects on survivors and families. It also highlights how a respected community role can be exploited to facilitate abuse.
Verbatim Quotes
- “One of the worst things about this abuse is the way it affected my ability to bring up my children and how it has affected my relationship with my husband.” — Victim, survivor
- “ "I am a victim of John Priestley and as a result my husband, my children and my grandchildren are also victims.” — Victim, survivor
- “ Det Con Will Hogan said: "Priestley's victims have had to live for more than 50 years with the harrowing effects of the crimes he committed, before they had the courage to report them.” — Det. Const. Will Hogan, Lancashire Police
- “Priestley used his good standing as a village businessman to make himself seem like a good person – he is not.” — Det. Const. Will Hogan, Lancashire Police
What’s Next
Following sentencing, Priestley was entered onto the sex offender register. No further legal proceedings have been announced.
