Rochdale 'Sexual Predator' Jailed

A man in his 70s who repeatedly abused a teenage girl while she was living in his house in Rochdale has been jailed for four years.

72-year-old John Tatton, who now lives in Stoke on Trent, was convicted of five offences of sexual activity with a child and one of sexual assault.

The victim, who was 15 at the time of the abuse, had moved into a house in Heywood which she shared with a group of other teenage girls.

All of them led what are described as chaotic lifestyles involving alcohol, drugs and sexual exploitation.

Tatton owned the house and told the girl she couldn't live there rent free, so had to pay for her stay with sexual favours.

At the same time, the victim was also being abused by a group of men who were eventually convicted and sentenced to a total of 77 years.

Detective Constable Dave South, of the Sexual Crimes Unit, said: "Tatton is a sexual predator who took complete advantage of a vulnerable teenage girl.

"He subjected her to a campaign of abuse over a six month period, during which she was forced to submit to him to 'pay' for her rent.

"Tatton is clearly a danger to young people and I hope today's sentence provides a level of reassurance to his victim."

Anyone who is concerned about a child or young person should call Greater Manchester Police on 101 or 999 in emergencies.

You can also call the NSPCC on 0800 800 5000. Any child or young person wanting help and advice can use the numbers above or contact Childline on 0800 1111.

Please also call the Runaway Helpline on 0808 800 70 70 if you need help. The helpline provides free 24 hour confidential support, help and advice