Praise for victims as rapist OAP locked up
APENSIONER has been jailed for 18 years after being found guilty of historical offences including rape and indecent assault.
Robert Edward O’Brien, 69, of Foxfold, Skelmersdale, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court on Friday.
O’Brien had denied the charges but was found guilty by a jury on September 20.
He was found guilty of six counts of rape and nine counts of indecent assault, relating to historical offences.
Following the sentencing, police praised the courage of the two women victims who came forward.
A spokesman for Lancashire police said: “This significant sentence reflects the gravity of the offending and we would first and foremost commend the courage of the victims for having the strength to come forward and speak out about what happened to them and for having the bravery to give evidence at court.
“O’Brien’s abuse has had a devastating impact on the lives of these two women which he compounded by denying the offences for which he has been convicted.”
The spokesman added: “This was a hugely challenging investigation but hopefully the sentence will offer some sense that a level of justice has been achieved.
“We would encourage anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence to come forward and report it, in the knowledge that it will be investigated sensitively and professionally.
“Anyone with information should call the police on 101.”