Pensioner jailed for 'disgusting' abuse against young children

A pensioner who abused and manipulated two boys in the 1980s and 90s in locations including Tameside has been jailed for 19 years following a police investigation.

John Ahern (73), of St Anne Street, Birkenhead, started committing his offences against the vulnerable pair when they were just young children. 

At Manchester Crown Square on Friday (September 5), Ahern was sentenced after previously being found guilty of eight counts of indecent assault and one of buggery. 

The court heard how the offences took place across two different periods – 1985-1991 and 1995-1997. 

Incidents took place at various locations including houses and in public, across areas including Manchester, Bolton, and Tameside.  

Ahern would try to build trust by talking about topics such as music or taking the boys out on trips but would soon begin his abuse. 

Ahern showed no remorse for his crimes, denying the incidents throughout the course of the proceedings. 

The investigation initially began in March 2019 when one of the men bravely approached the police, following which the other man came forward. 

Ahern was later interviewed, denying all accusations. 

Following a complex and thorough investigation, charges were secured and passed to the CPS. Following delays and adjournments to the case, the trial began earlier this year. 

Both men provided powerful impact statements, which were provided to the court and included the following: 

“By sharing my story, I respectfully request that the court acknowledges the profound and multifaceted impact this abuse has had on every aspect of my life. 

“The enduring mental and emotional scars, the disruption in my social and professional relationships, and the resurfacing of painful personal memories underscore that the repercussions of this abuse are both deep and lasting. 

“I remain dedicated to my recovery and I hope that by shedding a light on my experiences, steps may be taken to protect other vulnerable individuals from suffering a similar fate.” 

The second statement included: 

“I’d like to thank the court for hearing my case and considering my statement.  I cannot express the relief I felt when the defendant was found guilty, I finally felt heard and that life would finally be able to begin.  

“I would like the judge to consider that this man destroyed my childhood, he damaged the foundations of my adulthood, forever changing the person I would become.” 

Detective Constable Susan Muldowney, from GMP’s City of Manchester CID, said: “Ahern’s actions against two vulnerable young boys were utterly disgusting, and I am glad he is now behind bars. 

“The boys involved are now grown men and I want to pay tribute to their tremendous courage in coming forward. I am fully aware of the lasting effects that their early lives have had on them and their ongoing strength has helped put Ahern away. 

“This was a complex historical investigation and we have worked hard to get the result and justice for his victims.” 

Time is no barrier to prosecution and officers will look into your case whether it happened last week, or decades ago. 

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, police encourage you to not suffer in silence and report it to them or a support agency so you can get the help available. 

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515. 

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk 

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182