Man jailed for sexual assault and owning indecent images of children

John Breeze, 63, of Downall Road, Wigan, pleaded guilty to 17 counts of indecent images and indecent assaults of children.

Today (Thursday) Breeze was sentenced to five years in prison at Liverpool Crown Court.

In October 2015, officers from Greater Manchester Police executed a warrant at Breeze’s home and seized his computer and other items.

After forensic examination of electronic storage devices and other related material, officers from the organised crime intelligence unit discovered thousands of indecent images of children.

Further investigation uncovered that Breeze had sexually assaulted three boys aged 13 to 16 between 1998 and 200, and taken indecent phots of them.

Breeze was arrested and later charged with 17 offences of possessing and making indecent images of children and indecent assault.

Police Sergeant Simon Monks, of GMP’s Wigan borough, said: “John Breeze was a calculating individual who befriended people in order to sexually abuse young boys while on days out and on holidays.

“The extent of his predatory crimes were uncovered when officers searched his home and discovered thousands of indecent images of children.

“I hope the sentence passed today will send a clear message that we will not tolerate any form of child sexual exploitation and we, along with our partners, will continue to support victims and investigate all reports that are made.

“I would like to thank the victims for the support they have given to us and the courage they have shown throughout this investigation.

“Tackling sexual exploitation of children and young people is an absolute priority for us but protecting them is the responsibility of us all.

“It is crucial that we work together to identify individuals who prey on vulnerable children and empower young people to speak up.”

Visit www.itsnotokay.co.uk for more information for children, young people, parents, carers and professionals on how to spot the signs of CSE and what to do about it.